Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis: The Rising Challenge for Terence Crawford’s IBF Title

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis Becomes Terence Crawford’s IBF Mandatory Challenger

In a surprising turn of events, Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis has become the IBF mandatory challenger for welterweight champion Terence Crawford. With an undefeated record of 31-0 and an impressive knockout ratio, Ennis poses a dangerous threat to Crawford’s reign as the undisputed champion.

The Potential Clash: Crawford vs. Ennis

If Crawford decides to defend his IBF title after his likely rematch against Errol Spence Jr, he will be required to face Ennis. However, there is speculation that Crawford may choose to vacate all his welterweight titles and move up to the 154-pound division to avoid the dangerous trajectory of Ennis’s rising career.

Crawford has not yet revealed his future plans, leaving fans and boxing enthusiasts eagerly anticipating his decision. After Crawford’s recent ninth-round technical knockout win over Spence, he expressed that a rematch would be up to Spence. If the rematch does happen, it could potentially take place in December, as per the rematch clause in their contract.

Delaying the Rematch and Building Interest

One suggestion that has been put forth is for the promoters to delay the Crawford-Spence rematch and allow both fighters to face other opponents in the meantime. This would not only create more interest in the second contest but also provide an opportunity for Crawford to face Ennis in a mega-fight that would generate significant revenue and solidify his position as the number one fighter at 147 pounds.

If this scenario unfolds, it is likely that Spence would move up to the 154-pound division and face contenders such as Tim Tszyu, Brian Mendoza, or Sebastian Fundora, while Crawford would take on Ennis.

The Age and Experience Factor

One significant factor to consider is the age and experience difference between Crawford and Ennis. At 36 years old, Crawford is a decade older than Ennis, who is only 26. This age gap could potentially play a role in the outcome of their matchup.

Crawford would not be facing a weight-drained, inactive fighter like Spence, who has been involved in two serious car accidents. Ennis, on the other hand, is a true welterweight who easily makes the weight and poses a dynamic threat to Crawford’s title.

Boots Ennis’ Areas for Improvement

If Ennis does secure the opportunity to face Crawford, he will need to address certain areas for improvement. In his recent fight against Roiman Villa, Ennis showed vulnerability by getting hit too often and not demonstrating the same level of jab and punching power as Crawford did against Spence.

To compete at Crawford’s level, Ennis will need to work on his defense and power to ensure he can withstand the challenges posed by a seasoned champion like Crawford.

In conclusion, the emergence of Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis as Terence Crawford’s mandatory challenger has added excitement and intrigue to the welterweight division. The potential clash between these two skilled fighters could redefine the landscape of the division. As fans eagerly wait for Crawford’s decision, they remain hopeful for an electrifying matchup that showcases the best of both competitors.