Jaron Ennis has confirmed that a long-discussed fight with Vergil Ortiz will not happen for now, saying he is ready to move on and pursue a world title at super welterweight.
The unbeaten fighters had been linked to a major showdown after Ennis moved up to 154 pounds last year. In October, the former unified welterweight champion defeated Uisma Lima by first-round TKO to claim the vacant WBA interim super welterweight title.
Momentum for the matchup grew a month later when Ortiz stopped Erickson Lubin in two rounds. Ennis entered the ring afterward for a face-off, creating strong expectations that the two rising stars would meet next.
However, negotiations stalled amid Ortiz’s ongoing legal dispute with Golden Boy Promotions. A recent court ruling granted the promotion’s request to compel arbitration, further complicating the situation and delaying any potential bout.
Ennis addressed the issue on social media, saying he had done everything possible to make the fight happen. He explained that after months of waiting without progress, he has decided to move forward and focus on other opportunities.
With the Ortiz fight off the table, Ennis is now expected to target one of the champions at 154 pounds - Xander Zayas, Josh Kelly and Sebastian Fundora.
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