BY BOXING HIT STAFF-
Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn recently disclosed that IBF welterweight champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis has been mandated by the sanctioning body to face his mandatory challenger Karen Chukhadzhian in a rematch. Hearn expressed his frustration with this decision, stating that while Chukhadzhian is a good fighter, he is someone Ennis has previously defeated by a wide margin. This rematch does not align with Hearn’s vision of turning Ennis into a superstar in the sport of boxing.
In an effort to elevate Ennis’s status in the boxing world, Hearn revealed that he has extended a “substantial offer” to WBC 147-lb champion Mario Barrios for a potential unification bout with Ennis. Hearn is eagerly awaiting Barrios’s response to this proposal, as he believes that a unification fight would be more beneficial for Ennis’s career trajectory. However, if Barrios does not accept the offer, Hearn is considering the option of convincing him to vacate the IBF belt and move up to the 154-lb division for better opportunities.
While discussing alternative options for Ennis, Hearn mentioned the possibility of a matchup between Ennis and British fighter Conor Benn. Although this fight could pique the interest of British fans, Hearn acknowledged that it may not resonate as strongly with American audiences. Benn, who lacks recognition in the U.S. market, is viewed similarly to Chukhadzhian in terms of name recognition among American boxing enthusiasts.
Hearn reiterated his commitment to securing significant unification fights for Ennis, emphasizing that his ultimate goal is to position Ennis against top-tier competition in the welterweight division. While mandatory rematches are part of the sport, Hearn emphasized the importance of prioritizing high-profile matchups that will elevate Ennis’s career and solidify his status as a boxing superstar.
The future of Jaron Ennis remains uncertain as discussions about potential unification fights and mandatory rematch obligations continue to unfold. Hearn’s dissatisfaction with the IBF’s decision underscores the challenges promoters face in balancing mandatory obligations with strategic career moves aimed at maximizing a fighter’s potential. As Ennis navigates the intricacies of the boxing landscape, fans eagerly anticipate the next chapter in his promising career journey.
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