This is a compelling welterweight showdown between two seasoned strikers. Santiago Ponzinibbio, the Argentine powerhouse known for his aggressive pressure and crisp boxing, faces Daniel Rodriguez, a durable volume puncher with a gritty, southpaw style. Both men are coming off turbulent runs and will look to re-establish their relevance in the stacked 170-pound division with a big win in Des Moines.
The main card fight between Santiago Ponzinibbio and Daniel Rodriguez is a battle between two gritty, battle-tested veterans. Ponzinibbio, with a 30–8 record, brings years of experience and knockout power, particularly in his right hand. At 6'0" with a 73-inch reach, the Argentine will look to control range with sharp counters and pressure combinations. Despite some recent setbacks, his TKO win over Carlston Harris in January 2025 showed he still has finishing ability when he finds his rhythm.
Daniel Rodriguez, at 18–5, is a volume striker who thrives in high-paced fights. With a background in boxing and a chin built for firefights, he poses a unique challenge. Standing 6'1" with a 74-inch reach, Rodriguez is slightly longer and taller than Ponzinibbio, which could be an asset in the striking exchanges. His recent split decision win over Alex Morono helped him bounce back from a three-fight skid and reminds fans of his resilience and ability to go the distance.
This bout likely comes down to whose striking finds the mark more consistently. Ponzinibbio’s experience and one-shot power contrast with Rodriguez’s output and grit. If Ponzinibbio can cut angles and land clean counters, he could stop the fight. But if Rodriguez sets the tempo and drags this into deep waters, the scorecards could favor him.
Santiago Ponzinibbio – Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Carlston Harris – TKO (Punches) – Jan 11, 2025
2. Loss vs. Muslim Salikhov – Split Decision – Jul 13, 2024
3. Loss vs. Kevin Holland – KO (Punch) – Apr 8, 2023
4. Win vs. Alex Morono – TKO (Punches) – Dec 10, 2022
5. Loss vs. Michel Pereira – Split Decision – May 21, 2022
Daniel Rodriguez – Last 5 Fights
1. Win vs. Alex Morono – Split Decision – Oct 12, 2024
2. Loss vs. Kelvin Gastelum – Unanimous Decision – Jun 22, 2024
3. Loss vs. Ian Machado Garry – TKO (Head Kick & Punches) – May 13, 2023
4. Loss vs. Neil Magny – Submission (D'Arce Choke) – Nov 5, 2022
5. Win vs. Li Jingliang – Split Decision – Sep 10, 2022
Prediction
Santiago Ponzinibbio def. Daniel Rodriguez via TKO (Round 2 – 4:01)
