Jaron “Boots” Ennis has long been the fighter that insiders raved about. The Philadelphia native built his reputation in gyms across the country, dazzling trainers and champions alike with his electric talent. But since bursting onto the scene, the 27-year-old’s claim to a world title has been met with criticism, at least partly because he was elevated to full champion rather than winning it in the ring.
That changes April 12th, when Ennis attempts to unify the welterweight division against Eimantas Stanionis at Atlantic City’s Boardwalk Hall. Like Ennis, Stanionis rose to titleholder status with some help from the shifting welterweight landscape. Yet only Ennis, who’s expected to become a generational star, has taken heat for the path he’s traveled. Even he admits his last performance against Karen Chukhadzhian failed to live up to the lofty standard most have set for him.
This time around, Ennis vows that fans will see the best version of “Boots.” He views Stanionis as his most challenging opponent so far, and promises to make a statement by delivering a “magnificent” performance. The criticism, he believes, has simply fueled him to show why he’s been considered the “truth” from his earliest days in the gym.
Ennis stopped short of guaranteeing a knockout or providing a round-by-round breakdown. Instead, he urged fans to “tune in” for what he assures will be a flawless display of his talents. Although Stanionis is no pushover, Ennis intends to prove beyond any doubt that he belongs at the pinnacle of the welterweight division. If he does, the Philly star could finally silence those who question how he arrived at the top - and claim center stage among boxing’s elite.
Image Credit: ESPN