Brandon Rhodes just earned the biggest win of his Power Slap career — and maybe the biggest upset of the night — by defeating former title contender Emanuel Muniz in a grueling three-round war at Power Slap 14.
Known for his toughness but often overlooked in the rankings, Rhodes delivered a composed, strategic performance that turned a lot of heads in New Orleans. From the opening chalk box moment to the final slap, he showcased a blend of mind games, smart technique, and incredible durability.
“He Was a F***ing Gangster”
Rhodes came into the match knowing exactly what kind of danger Muniz brought.
“I expected it to be a tough match,” Rhodes said. “But I thought I’d at least be able to knock him down… he can take a f***ing slap.”
Despite connecting clean, Rhodes couldn’t put Muniz down — but his volume and control made the difference. The second-round shot staggered Muniz and likely swung the match in Rhodes’ favor.
“That was the shot right there,” Rhodes recalled. “Don’t get me wrong, his shots f***ed me up… but I think just trying not to move after is why I ended up taking the victory.”
No Confidence, Just Strategy
Rhodes looked cool and collected before the match, sitting calmly on the chalk box as Muniz paced. But he admits the calm exterior was a mental play.
“It wasn’t confidence — I was stressing it,” he laughed. “But I wanted Manny to know I wasn’t.”
The strategy worked, and Rhodes continued to apply pressure through all three rounds, even drawing attention from ref Kerry Hatley for a borderline shoulder brace. He made the adjustment and pressed on.
“Right on One” with a Low Set
As one of the few strikers who consistently chooses to go right on one, Rhodes leaned into his unorthodox style against Muniz — including a deep crouch before the slap.
“He doesn’t have much of a chin that sticks out, and sometimes he dips,” he explained. “If you get low, that strike lands perfect.”
While it wasn’t a knockout, the accuracy and control from that crouched position kept Muniz guessing all fight long.
What’s Next?
Rhodes didn’t expect the decision to go his way — he was even hoping for a bonus round.
“I actually thought it was going to be a draw,” he admitted. “I was kind of hoping for one more round just to get the crowd up. I’m no stranger to putting my body on the line.”
Now, he’s hoping to compete two more times before the end of the year, and he’s proven he belongs in the upper tier of Power Slap’s middleweight division.
From overlooked underdog to undeniable contender, Brandon Rhodes just delivered a statement performance — and the fans took notice.