Power Slap veteran Azael “El Perro” Rodriguez is heading back into action at Power Slap 17, this time taking on Andrew Provost, one of the sport’s original competitors. For Rodriguez, this matchup isn’t just about another fight — it’s about redemption, entertainment, and proving that El Perro is still one of the most dangerous strikers in slap fighting.
“I’m excited to be back — always excited,” Rodriguez told Slap News. “It’s a new country, a new place, and I’m ready to put on a show for the fans and especially for Andrew. He’s an OG, and what better way to welcome him back?”
Back in the Spotlight After Setbacks
After a tough loss to Babyface Blackburn at Power Slap 13, Rodriguez has been focused on sharpening his mental and physical game. Despite the defeat, he’s confident that this next performance will mark a major turnaround.
“Every time I lose, I learn,” he said. “I’ve only lost decisively twice — against John Davis and Blackburn. After that, I knew I had to clean up my technique and refocus mentally. The Azael you’ll see now is totally different.”
That loss, Rodriguez admits, weighed on him. But it also fueled a transformation.
“It took me a few weeks to get over it,” he explained. “But I realized it would make me stronger — defensively, offensively, and more entertaining. I want to bring more energy for the fans.”
Analyzing the Opponent: Andrew Provost
Rodriguez is facing Andrew Provost, a name fans haven’t seen in nearly two years. Known for his early Power Slap days and a brief return to MMA, Provost remains a respected OG in the sport — but Rodriguez believes the gap in experience and evolution will show.
“I’ve reviewed all his matches,” Rodriguez said. “He has a decent slap — you saw it against Alex Asbury and Joel Scott — but I’ve faced much heavier hitters. I don’t think his slap will faze me, and I don’t think he’s ever been hit by someone like me.”
While confident, Rodriguez isn’t careless.
“It’s Power Slap — anything can happen,” he admitted. “But I’m so confident this time. I’m just going to go out there, do my thing, and show that El Perro is back.”
Learning From Losses and Staying Entertaining
Rodriguez has built a reputation not only as a fierce striker but as one of the most entertaining personalities in Power Slap. From his walkouts to his energy on stage, El Perro brings flair every time he competes — and he wants to raise that bar even higher in Saudi Arabia.
“I think I need to step it up a little bit,” he said. “We’re learning, but I want to keep improving — not just my performance, but my entertainment too.”
With ten Power Slap fights already under his belt, Rodriguez sees his longevity and resilience as major career milestones.
“My biggest accomplishment is getting three title shots,” he said proudly. “That shows how big I am in this sport. Not many can say that.”
As for his biggest regret? He doesn’t hesitate.
“The Blackburn loss,” he said. “That night was one of my biggest downfalls. I was confident I could beat him, but it didn’t go my way. I want that rematch — and John Davis 3, too. I always want to get back at the people who beat me.”
Final Message to Andrew Provost
Before wrapping up, Rodriguez had one clear message for his opponent.
“Andrew, it’s finally time,” he said. “You used to say it’s kill or be killed — well, this time you’re the one getting killed. Come out and do your thing, but I’m getting this win. Good luck.”
With the trademark swagger and intensity that fans love, Azael “El Perro” Rodriguez looks ready to make a statement at Power Slap 17 — one that reminds everyone why he’s one of the sport’s most electrifying stars.