A Tough Chin and a Solid Win
Brandon “The Ripper” Rhodes returned to the stage at Power Slap 15, earning a second-round TKO win over Trenten Bordeaux in a powerful performance. Rhodes praised his opponent’s toughness, acknowledging that Bordeaux’s chin held up longer than expected.
“He’s got a pretty solid chin,” Rhodes said. “I thought I saw him wobble in the first, and that second one had power behind it. I hit him clean, but he got up — so yeah, he’s got a future in Power Slap.”
Precision Over Power
Known for his raw knockout ability, Rhodes has faced criticism in the past about precision. After months of focused training, he felt he silenced those doubts.
“No one’s ever doubted my power — they doubted my precision. It feels good to go out there and prove I’m getting better every match. I took almost no damage, so I’m expecting a quick turnaround.”
Facing a Familiar Style
Having previously fought Trenten’s brother, Branden Bordeaux, Rhodes admitted the similarities between the two were striking — both in look and style.
“Everything looked pretty similar,” he said. “But Trenten hit a little deep. His brother knows exactly where to land it, and I’m sure they’ll talk about that. He’s got the power, just needs to fine-tune it.”
Division Heating Up
Rhodes also reacted to Stunt Marshall’s highlight-reel knockout earlier in the night, admitting that the performance caught his attention.
“That was crazy,” Rhodes said. “It put him on my radar. He’s a lefty — I haven’t been hit by one before, and neither has AJ [Hintz], so that might cause some problems in the division. But he’s what middleweight needed.”
Potential Future Matchups
When asked about a potential showdown with Stunt Marshall, Rhodes didn’t shy away.
“If it’s a quick turnaround, I’d take it. I’ve got bigger goals right now — Power Slap and I know where I’m headed — but if the fans want it, I’m down.”
Staying Hungry
Following the win, Rhodes revealed the first thing on his mind post-fight — food.
“A big fat steak,” he laughed. “I love red meat. Maybe some cottage cheese too — it’s been in my diet all camp. I’m so used to it now.”
Performance Bonus?
Despite the second-round finish, Rhodes didn’t expect a performance bonus.
“No, he didn’t go to sleep, so probably not. Maybe fight of the night, but we’ll see. Either way, a win’s a win. I took no damage — great night at the office.”