Jaron “Boots” Ennis is set to defend his interim IBF welterweight title against #2 ranked Roiman Villa in a headliner bout at the Borgata Hotel Casino & Spa in Atlantic City, New Jersey on Showtime
Undefeated Ennis is maintaining his fighting momentum as he waits for an opportunity to contest for the IBF 147-lb belt, which he may be elevated to as full IBF champion in 2024. Venezuelan Villa, viewed by many fans as a significant step up from Ennis’ last opponent, has also attracted criticism with some labeling him as just another easy opponent for Ennis. The fight itself has been met with mixed reactions on social media. While Ennis would likely prefer high-profile bouts against fighters like Keith Thurman or Vergil Ortiz Jr, these potential opponents seemingly view him as too dangerous, risking a career-damaging loss. The upcoming fight also marks a rare return of boxing to Atlantic City, a former hub for boxing in the 80s and 90s.
The 30-year-old Villa, who scored an impressive upset over previously unbeaten Rashidi Ellis in his last bout, is seen by some as a significant upgrade from Ennis’ previous opponent, Karen Chukhadzhian. Critics argued that Chukhadzhian exposed some of Ennis’ weaknesses in their 12-round encounter in Washington, D.C. last January. Villa’s recent performances lend credence to his deserving the upcoming fight against Ennis, despite skepticism from casual fans.
The eight-year pro Villa’s victories, mostly against less-known opposition in Colombia, have kept him under the radar for many U.S fans. Meanwhile, Ennis has been eyeing a title shot against welterweight champions Errol Spence Jr and Terence Crawford. As both champions are expected to move up to 154 in 2024, the IBF may either elevate Ennis to champion or order him to fight for the vacant title against the highest-ranking contenders who are willing and able to fight him.
In the co-main event of the evening, unbeaten Yoelvis Gómez (6-0, 5 KOs) will face Marquis Taylor (14-1-2, 1 KO) in the 10-round middleweight clash
Main card:
▪️Jaron Ennis vs. Roiman Villa, 12 rounds, for Ennis’ IBF interim welterweight title ▪️Yoelvis Gomez vs. Marquis Taylor, 10 rounds, junior middleweight ▪️Edwin De Los Santos vs. Joseph Adorno, 10 rounds, lightweight
**Preliminary card: (begins at 7:30 pm ET)
▪️Euri Cedeno vs. William Townsel, 8 rounds, middleweight ▪️Steven Torres vs. James Evans, 6 rounds, heavyweight ▪️Dwyke Flemmings Jr vs. Henry Rivera, 4 rounds, super welterweight
