A blockbuster doubleheader featuring Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Jesse “Bam” Rodriguez vs. Roman “Chocolatito” Gonzalez could be heading to Saudi Arabia on February 22nd as part of the Riyadh Season events. The news was shared by Vergil Jr.’s trainer, Robert Garcia, hinting at what would be a fan-favorite lineup.

This potential event brings an interesting mix of young talent and veteran experience. Bam Rodriguez facing Chocolatito Gonzalez might raise eyebrows, as the 37-year-old Gonzalez, nearing 38, is well past his prime and has lost two of his last four. Some fans feel it could look like a mismatch in favor of the 24-year-old Rodriguez. Bam has already taken on - and defeated - older names, so many hope this bout won’t simply be a “stepping stone” for him.

As for Boots Ennis, there’s curiosity around whether he’ll stay at 154 after potentially facing Vergil Ortiz Jr. or if this is just a one-off. Ennis has expressed interest in unifying the welterweight division, though he’s found it challenging to secure opponents. A win over Ortiz could put him in line for high-profile fights with stars like Terence Crawford, Sebastian Fundora, and Tim Tszyu if he chooses to continue at junior middleweight.

Ortiz’s most recent outing - a controversial majority decision over Serhii Bohachuk on August 10th - left some fans feeling unsatisfied, as many believed Bohachuk deserved the win. Ortiz, however, has chosen not to offer a rematch, adding further intrigue to his next steps in the ring. With Ennis as the potential B-side, fighting in Riyadh could help even the playing field, though Ennis will likely need a convincing performance to secure the victory.

Before then, Ennis defends his IBF welterweight title against Karen Chukhadzhian on November 9th in Philadelphia, and Bam Rodriguez will defend his WBC super flyweight belt against Pedro Guevara.

Image Credit: Golden Boy Promotions