UNDEFEATED Philadelphian Jaron Ennis has established himself as the man to beat at 147lbs, but ‘Boots’ has now confirmed the legitimacy of a rumoured move up in weight.
Ennis, 34-0 (30 KOs), was upgraded to full IBF welterweight world champion in November 2023 and has had a rollercoaster reign despite just three defences to his name.
The unbeaten 27-year-old kickstarted life as a champion with a dominant homecoming clash with David Avanesyan, halting the Armenian after five rounds of one-sided, authoritative action.
Then, again in Philadelphia, Ennis was tasked with a rematch against mandatory challenger Karen Chukhadzhian, but an underwhelming decision win convinced many that his time at welterweight was done.
Nevertheless, the rangy American remained at the weight and collided with WBA titleholder Eimantas Stanionis back in April in a first career unification.
In a career-best display, Ennis ran through the Lithuanian in six rounds to reaffirm his superstar potential and thrust himself into the pound-for-pound conversation.
However, his promoter Eddie Hearn admitted last week that it is time for Ennis to begin a new chapter in the 154lb division, eyeing up a long-awaited showdown with Vergil Ortiz Jr.
On Instagram, the unified welterweight champion confirmed the move himself, revealing his goal of conquering another weight class.
“It’s time! 154. Y’all said this where the smoke at right!? Let’s have it then! 2x weight division champ • 4x time world champ loading!”
As for Ennis’ welterweight titles, the WBA strap is expected to fall into the hands of current WBA (Regular) champion Rolando Romero. ‘Rolly’ will assumably be ordered to take on current mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov in a first defence of the full world title.
Meanwhile, the vacant IBF title is anticipated to be up for grabs in the second instalment of the all-Irish grudge match between Lewis Crocker and Paddy Donovan, with that rematch touted for Saturday, September 20.
