Sam Goodman Beats Rodrigo Ruiz in IBF Eliminator

The opening rounds were far from comfortable for Goodman. Ruiz came out aggressive, finding a home for a heavy overhand left in the second round that clearly staggered the local favorite. That power kept Goodman on his heels through the first three frames, as Ruiz pushed the pace and forced uncomfortable exchanges.

The momentum flipped in the fourth. Goodman began finding his range behind a stiff jab and specifically targeted Ruiz’s midsection. This investment in body work paid off quickly, as Ruiz’s explosive movements slowed and his work rate dipped. By controlling the distance, Goodman was able to pick his spots and land crisp combinations while staying out of the way of Ruiz’s heavy counters.

Goodman’s engine was the difference in the final stages. He rocked Ruiz with a sharp left uppercut in the tenth and followed up in the eleventh with a relentless body assault that had Ruiz covering up against the ropes. While Ruiz remained dangerous with single power shots, he couldn’t keep up with the volume coming his way.

The judges saw the contest comfortably for Goodman with scores of 115-113, 116-112, and 118-110. With this win, Goodman solidifies his position as a top contender in the 122 pound division.