Brandon Rhodes didn’t just win at Power Slap 18 — he made a statement.
After a brutal performance against top contender Isiah Chionas, Rhodes walked away with a victory, a performance bonus, and renewed confidence that he belongs in the title picture.
But if you ask him, the job still feels unfinished.
Brandon Rhodes vs Isiah Chionas: A War, Not Just a Win
Facing one of the toughest competitors in the division, Rhodes knew he was in for a battle.
And that’s exactly what he got.
“I wanted the knockout… and this motherf***er keeps getting up.”
Despite landing heavy shots, Chionas refused to go down — something Rhodes respected, even in frustration.
“He’s a top 5 guy for sure. I don’t see many people putting him completely out.”
Bonus Secured — But Not Fully Satisfied
While the win and performance bonus were big positives, Rhodes admitted his initial reaction wasn’t pure celebration.
“At first I was pissed off.”
Why?
Because he wanted a definitive finish.
“I didn’t want him to get up.”
Still, the bonus and the performance helped put things into perspective.
Why Rhodes Wanted All Three Rounds
In a surprising take, Rhodes actually wanted the fight to continue — even after heavy damage was dealt early.
“I wanted this match to go all three rounds.”
It wasn’t just about punishment — it was about proving dominance and testing durability.
He also showed respect for Chionas’ recovery ability:
“Even if he stumbles… I know the next second he might be fine.”
Title Shot Incoming?
With this performance, Rhodes is now firmly in the mix for a title opportunity.
And the name at the top?
Isiah Chionas.
“It completely excites me.”
Rhodes sees the matchup as both dangerous and necessary.
Rhodes vs Chionas: A Future War?
If the fight happens again — this time with a belt on the line — Rhodes already has his prediction.
“I’m going to put him out in three.”
But he’s not underestimating his opponent.
“He has a really good chin… probably the hardest hitter in the division.”
That combination sets the stage for a potential classic.
Dropping to 170? Rhodes Explains
Interestingly, Rhodes hinted at a possible move down in weight — but not for the reasons you might expect.
“The only reason I’d go down to 170 is so I can have abs.”
A mix of honesty and humor, but also a reminder that weight class decisions can be strategic — and personal.
Career Evolution: Learning From Loss
Rhodes credits a past loss as the turning point in his career.
“I completely changed my whole game since that loss.”
Since then, he’s improved:
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Shot delivery
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Defensive technique
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Overall composure
“I take shots differently. I deliver shots differently.”
That growth is now translating into complete performances.
Unfinished Business: A Rematch in Mind
Rhodes made it clear — there’s still one fight he wants back.
“I know he has zero chance of beating me… I want that rematch.”
That confidence speaks volumes about how much he’s evolved since that loss.
How Long Does Rhodes Have Left?
While still relatively young, Rhodes is already thinking about the timeline of his career.
“Realistically, probably three more years.”
However, activity will play a major role.
“If they book me more, I’ll stay longer… but I’m not going to wait around.”
Brandon Rhodes Is Peaking at the Right Time
With:
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A win over a top contender
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A performance bonus
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Improved technique and mindset
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Clear title ambitions
Brandon Rhodes is hitting his stride at the perfect moment.
And if the title opportunity comes next…
Don’t expect him to leave it in the judges’ hands.