Jaron Ennis Could Meet Abass Barou After Vergil Ortiz Fight
After scoring a statement-making knockout over WBA #8-rated junior middleweight contender Uisma Lima, Jaron “Boots” Ennis put the entire division on notice. During the post-fight in-ring interview, the Philadelphian dropped the names of champions Sebastian Fundora (WBC), Bakhram Murtazaliev (IBF), and Xander Zayas (WBO). However, his first shot for a title could be against WBA champion Abass Baraou, providing he gets pass Vergil Ortiz Jr.
The newly crowned WBA interim champion, along with Matchroom Boxing Chairman Eddie Hearn, wasted little time making it clear they want to fight Vergil Ortiz Jr. next. That is a fight that most pundits and fans can agree needs to happen. In addition, Ennis expressed wanting smoke with everyone in the division.
“I’m here at 154, made a statement, let’s bring them names . . . If we can’t get Vergil Ortiz next, I heard that baby cub was calling me out – Charlo, he can get it next. Fundora, the IBF champ can get it. Xander can get it. Anybody at 154 – I’m belt chasing.”
When looking at the division, Ennis’ most likely title fight could be against Baraou. Unlike the other champions, the German fighter isn’t connected to any of the powerhouse promotional companies. This makes it easy to negotiate a deal without any issues.
There is a load of talent in the junior middleweight division. Adding Ennis to the mix makes it one of the hottest divisions to watch going into 2026.
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