Josh Kelly is a Risky Bet Against Jaron Ennis Or Sebastian Fundora
Unified 154-pound champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis (36-0, 32KO) or WBC champion Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora (24-1-1, 16KO) should target IBF champion Josh “Pretty Boy” Kelly immediately. Despite saying he wanted to fight one of the champions, in this author’s opinion, Kelly didn’t sound very confident.
Kelly (19-1-1, 9 KO) successfully defended the title against top contender Caoimhin Agyarko. As usual, he started fast but faded in the second half, resulting in a bloody face and a broken nose. After winning the contest, a less-than-confident champion claimed willingness to face the other champions. However, he didn’t sound very convincing and could be sidelined until 2027 because of a broken nose.
A TARGET IS ON HIS BACK
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn also chimed in, talking about a possible showdown with Boots. Both champions need to make it a top priority to be the first to challenge Kelly. After such a lackluster performance, the IBF champion is easy pickings for Ennis or Fundora.
Fundora (24-1-1, 16KO) would have the biggest advantages: height, reach, power, and possibly speed. The WBC champion is fighting at a whole new level with a three-fight stoppage streak. In his last outing, he became the first man to stop former unified 147-pound champion Keith Thurman on March 28. He is finally learning to use that exceptionally tall frame.
Ennis (36-0, 32KO) should be the easiest fight to make considering they share the same promoter. The unified champion made it clear he wants to become undisputed after taking apart one-time unified champion Xander Zayas on June 27. Furthermore, he can match the Brit’s athleticism, and his overall power makes him a heavy favorite to win by knockout.
Kelly has the weakest resume among champions in the division. This makes the IBF champion a vulnerable target in a hunt for undisputed.
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