Teddy Atlas Questions Heavy Favorite Status For Jaron Ennis Vs Xander Zayas

“They’re basing it on what Ennis is supposed to be,” Atlas said on his YouTube channel. “Because he hasn’t really been tested yet.”

Atlas noted that Ennis has looked impressive throughout his career, but questioned whether his record warranted being nearly a 5-1 favorite over another undefeated fighter.

“You can’t say that because look who he hit, he hit this guy, he hit that guy. No, you can’t say that because they’re not there,” Atlas said.

Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs) was elevated to IBF welterweight champion in 2023 and later unified the division before moving up to 154 pounds. He made his junior middleweight debut with a first-round knockout of Uisma Lima. Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs), unified titles with a win over WBA champion Abass Baraou last January and will make the first defense of his belts against Ennis.

Rather than dismiss Zayas’ chances, Atlas described the undefeated Puerto Rican as a legitimate threat.

“I think Zayas is a lively dog,” Atlas said. “You’re going to give me that much with an undefeated kid with a good amateur pedigree? I have to think about it.”

Atlas believes Ennis has advantages in experience, accuracy and punching power, but said Zayas’ size, movement and jab could create problems if he is able to control distance and keep the fight on the outside.

For Atlas, the fight will answer a question that has followed Ennis throughout his rise in the sport.

“Is he our guy?” Atlas said. “This is going to confirm it.”

Atlas’s skepticism focuses on one issue: Ennis’ lack of definition of victories. Against an undefeated champion in Zayas, he will finally get the opportunity to add the type of name to his resume that critics say has been missing.