Jaron “Boots” Ennis made his intentions unmistakably clear following Vergil Ortiz Jr.’s latest victory.
The unbeaten Philadelphia native, who captured the WBA interim 154lbs title with a first-round knockout of Uisma Lima on October 11, traveled to Fort Worth, Texas, on Saturday to watch Ortiz defend his WBC interim super welterweight belt with a second-round stoppage of Erickson Lubin.
“I’m letting everybody know – this is the fight I want next,” Ennis told DAZN’s Chris Mannix at ringside. “This fight has so much hype behind it. Even more than it did two months ago. Let’s go.”
Watch the post-fight interviews here.
Ennis re-signed with Matchroom Boxing earlier this year to pursue the Ortiz showdown. According to Matchroom chairman Eddie Hearn, both sides had preliminary terms in place. “We agreed we would fight in October, they would fight in November, and then we’d move forward,” Hearn revealed. “We signed on our side. Eric Gomez [Golden Boy president] told me they’re still interested. Let’s give the fans the fight they want. Two guys in their prime – no need to wait.”
Those comments were music to Ennis’ ears. “He ain’t said nothing but the truth,” Ennis replied. “I’m the best 154-pounder in the world. These guys can’t tie my shoes.”
A clash between Ennis and Ortiz in early 2026 would headline a red-hot start to the year for the division, joining the WBO–WBA title unification between Xander Zayas and Abass Baraou set for January 31 in San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Image Credit: DAZN