Yafai is expected to overcome Rodriguez Jr, a former strawweight world champion with 39 wins, six losses and one draw.
His previous contest was changed from a points win to a no-contest. BBC Sport contacted the Texas boxing commission for clarity, while Yafai says he is also unsure of the reasons.
“You get those weird stories in boxing,” Yafai says. “But he’s a tough, proven fighter and all I can do is focus on what I have do. I’m sure that’ll be enough on the night.”
Beyond Rodriguez, a showdown with Teraji awaits. There is perhaps an even bolder move – stepping up to challenge Jesse ‘Bam’ Rodriguez, the American two-weight world champion who stopped Edwards in 2023.
“Bam’s a great fighter and I’m not deluded, I’d probably do myself an injustice going up to face a champion like him,” Yafai says.
“But I was ringside when he stopped Sunny and I saw enough to know how I could beat him.”
For now, though, the target remains clear.
“First, I must win on Saturday,” Yafai says. “And then can I go on and win a world title.
“When I retire from boxing, I want to sit back and say I was Olympic champion and world champion. That’s the legacy I’m chasing.”
