Why Medina looks like the safer option for Bam

The undefeated Salas Reyes, 17-0 (11 KOs), has quietly emerged as one of the most dangerous fighters in the bantamweight division. The 24-year-old southpaw combines speed, timing and genuine hitting power with an advanced counter-punching style that punishes opponents for their mistakes.

Those qualities make him a much more relevant test for Bam than Medina.

Medina is a solid world champion, but he is not considered a devastating puncher, and his defensive flaws have been evident throughout his career. After watching Bam stop Vargas in six rounds last Saturday night, many fans questioned whether Medina would even represent an upgrade in trouble.

Salas Reyes presents a very different challenge.

He is younger. He is faster. He hits harder. And he possesses the kind of sharp counter-punching ability that could force Bam to make the adjustments he’ll likely need against Inoue.

One fan on social media suggested Salas Reyes as Bam’s next opponent, and after reviewing the IBF champion’s recent performances, it’s hard to dismiss the idea. Salas doesn’t look like a fighter who simply holds a title. He looks like someone capable of becoming one of the division’s dominant forces.

From team Rodriguez’s perspective, coach Robert Garcia’s preference for Medina is understandable. Medina is a co-titleholder and offers Bam another opportunity to unify before making the jump to 122 pounds.

But if the goal is to find the best possible preparation for Inoue, Salas Reyes seems to check more boxes.

For fans unfamiliar with Salas Reyes, his recent performances offer insight into why some observers consider him the most dangerous champion at bantamweight. The undefeated Mexican southpaw mixes speed, power and timing in a style that can cause problems for anyone at 118 pounds.

Jose Salas Reyes’ recent fight

Bam has earned the benefit of the doubt after repeatedly taking on difficult assignments throughout his career. Picking Medina won’t automatically make him a cherry picker. But when comparing the available options at bantamweight, Salas Reyes stands out as the opponent most likely to answer questions and provide meaningful preparation for the challenge that awaits at 122 pounds.

If Bam is serious about being ready for Inoue, Jose Salas Reyes might be the fight he needs most.