Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Golden Boy Promotions may be moving closer to repairing their relationship, with talks now described as “positive” ahead of a possible fall return.
Ortiz has not fought since stopping Erickson Lubin in the second round last November in Texas. That win seemed to set up a major fight with Jaron “Boots” Ennis, who watched from ringside and later faced off with Ortiz in the ring.
Instead, negotiations broke down. Ortiz’s side claimed Golden Boy made a low offer, while Oscar De La Hoya’s side accused manager Rick Mirigian of looking for a way out and speaking with other promoters. Lawsuits followed, and Ennis moved on to a 154lbs title fight with Xander Zayas.
Now, Golden Boy president Eric Gomez says the sides are trying to work things out, and Mirigian confirmed that the tone of talks has improved. “The framework is there to make something happen now,” Mirigian said.
Mirigian added that De La Hoya will ultimately decide whether the relationship moves forward. He also pointed to Ortiz’s long-standing loyalty and admiration for De La Hoya as a reason a reunion remains possible.
If a deal is finalized, Ortiz could return in a major junior middleweight fight later this year. Possible names mentioned include Jermell Charlo, Sebastian Fundora, or the winner of Errol Spence Jr. vs. Tim Tszyu.
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