Padilla started his career at Valencia but was subject of controversy since Valencia claimed he was sold to Olimpia by Hispano in 2009 while still on Valencia's books.[1]
His brothers, Esdras and Eleazar Padilla, also played for Hispano. Padilla, alongside Esdras and Eleazar was transferred to Motagua in 2008.[2] But the transfer was unsuccessful for Rigoberto Padilla and he stayed to play for Hispano. He then joined Olimpia before moving to Victoria for the 2011 Apertura.[3]
He left Victoria and returned to Olimpia for the 2013 Clausura.[4]
He made his senior debut for Honduras in a friendly against Colombia on 26 March 2008 and has earned a total of 3 caps, scoring no goals. He has represented his country 2009 CONCACAF Gold Cup,[6] where he played his final international against the USA.