‘After this one I’m going pro’: Blue Collar’s Gabriel Rodriguez chasing one last amateur title

Three and a half years ago, Gabriel Rodriguez arrived in Windsor as a refugee from Venezuela. He had to learn a new language, a new culture and a new way of life.

“Four years ago, at this date, I was sleeping in the train,” he said.

When he landed in Windsor, Gabriel found Blue Collar Boxing.

Now the 23-year-old is a provincial champion, getting ready for what he says will be his final amateur fight, at nationals in Cape Breton next month.

“I’ve been training all this year for this one, for these nationals,” Rodriguez said.

Why this one? “Because after this one I’m going pro,” he told PowerplayWindsor.com. “I’m ready for the professionals.”

Rodriguez has packed a career’s worth of fights into a short time. According to BoxingRec.com Gabriel won his debut in July of 2023 against Evan Baxter and has a 26-14 record with 2 KO's. He says most of his losses came by decision, and he has since beaten several of the fighters who beat him.

Gabriel has done it while working two jobs.

He feels his style was always built for the pro game, but amateur boxing is scored differently. To win on points, he has to throw for volume to land more punches. He enjoys the technical aspect and purpose of throwing a punch.

“After this one, I know in pro I’m gonna do better. My style, everything is for pro,” Rodriguez said. “I’m excited for this one. I’m more excited for this one than for for all the other ones.”

Four years ago, Gabriel was fighting for survival. Now he’s fighting for a future in the pro ranks.