Ennis, known as 'Boots', has been making waves in the welterweight division. The 30-year-old from Philadelphia boasts an impressive record of 34 wins with no losses, including 30 knockouts. His career reached new heights in April 2023 when he captured the unified WBA and IBF world welterweight titles. Ennis stopped Eimantas Stanionis in the 6th round at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, showcasing his devastating power and skill.
Now, Ennis is setting his sights on new challenges. He's planning to move up to super-welterweight, with his next fight expected before the end of the year, possibly as soon as October.
On the other side of the ring, Vergil Ortiz Jr has been making his own mark in the sport. He currently holds the WBC interim title at 154lbs and recently defended it in February 2024. Ortiz Jr went the distance for only the second time in his career, winning a 12-round decision against Israil Madrimov in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. His record stands at an impressive 23 wins, with 21 of those coming by knockout.
The boxing world is already buzzing about the potential clash between these two rising stars. Promoters are adding fuel to the fire with their statements about the inevitability of the matchup.
Eddie Hearn, Ennis's promoter, has projected that the fight against Ortiz Jr will happen in 2026. Oscar De La Hoya, who promotes Ortiz Jr, echoed this sentiment in a recent interview.
"Look, that fight is inevitable, that fight there with Boots Ennis and Vergil is going to happen, I cannot wait," De La Hoya said. "I believe Boots is tremendous, tremendous boxer-puncher, he's got the ring IQ, he's got the confidence. He's a star. But Vergil Ortiz, when he's right in front of you, there's nowhere to hide so I cannot wait for that fight to happen, it's gonna happen soon and I can't wait to see it."
With both fighters known for their aggressive styles and knockout power, fans can expect fireworks when Ennis and Ortiz Jr finally meet in the ring. As they continue to climb the ranks and prove themselves at super-welterweight, the anticipation for this clash of unbeaten talents will only grow.