‘Boots’ added that he went straight to Ortiz’s hometown fight in November and told him he wanted to face him next. The Philadelphia fighter said he expected the conversation to lead to negotiations for one of the biggest fights available at welterweight, but instead claims the situation has stalled.
“I came to his fight in his hometown and told him he was next,” Ennis said, pointing to that moment as evidence that he tried to push the fight personally.
The potential clash between Ennis and Vergil Jr. generated significant fan interest as both fighters are undefeated and considered two of the most dangerous punchers in the division. Jaron built a reputation as one of boxing’s hardest hitters at 147 pounds, stopping most of the opponents he faced during his run to the IBF title.
Ortiz, meanwhile, has also earned a reputation for aggressive striking and knockout power during his career across the welterweight and junior middleweight divisions. A fight between the two has been discussed by fans and media alike as a natural matchup between rising stars capable of producing an explosive fight.
Ennis’ comments suggest that months have passed without the fight moving forward after the initial call-out. His message on social media was the first time he publicly expressed frustration with the situation, implying that he was waiting quietly as he hoped the fight would be settled.
The IBF champion did not say what his next move is in the job, but his comments made it clear he believes he has done what he can to make the fight happen and no longer expects it to move forward.
For now, the highly anticipated bout between ‘Boots’ and Ortiz remains one of the great fights in the welterweight picture that has yet to come together.
