Who’s Got Next?
By Eddie Sanchez
Courtesy of Terence Crawford, the Welterweight division is settled — at least for now. Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis (31 – 0, 28 KO) is hoping to disrupt that reality.
The 26-year old is a dynamic and talented professional boxer hailing from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, and owner of the IBF Interim Welterweight title. Known for his lightning-fast footwork, explosive power, and impressive boxing IQ, Ennis has quickly risen through the ranks to establish himself as a force to be reckoned with as a challenger in the welterweight division. With victories over the likes of Sergey Lipinets, Thomas Dulorme Roiman Villa, and Custio Clayton, Boots is hoping to make that monumental leap towards the top of the pedestal.
With a stellar amateur background (58 – 3), including silver in the 2014 Golden Gloves and Gold in 2015 respectively, he has garnered attention for his dominant performances and knockout victories. As he continues to grow and evolve, the boxing world eagerly awaits to witness the bright future of this young phenom, with aspirations of becoming a world champion and leaving an indelible mark within the historic division he competes in. Ennis is working to ensure that his name will be etched in history with a potential fight against Terence Crawford.
Jaron Ennis likely represents the final challenge worth Crawford’s time at the 147 pound division, which doesn’t bode well for his prospects at securing the challenge, when you consider the gauntlet of opportunity for Crawford at 154. A potential rematch with Spence, a bout with number one challenger Tim Tsyzu, and a fight to settle who the Undisputed champion of the Junior Middleweight division is, with Jermell Charlo, each likely equal greater paydays and viewership for the champ.
While not ideal, Ennis will likely represent the next wave of elite welterweights whether he gets the opportunity to fight Crawford at 147 or not. A fight with WBA (regular) champion, Eimantas Stannionis (14 – 0, 9 KO), is likely possible given Golden Boy Promotions’ desire to secure a high profile bout for their young (regular) champion.
Ennis’ future likely depends on decisions that are out of his control. Regardless of that next step though, he seems to have put in the work to represent himself as a formidable challenger, and potential future champion.
