Zayas, who holds the WBA and WBO titles at 154 pounds, acknowledged Ennis’ ability but stopped short of placing him among the sport’s top names.
“He’s a good fighter,” Zayas told Ring Magazine. “But I don’t think he’s a good fighter. I’m going to do what I do on June 27, and I’m going to come out victorious.”
The 23-year-old also pointed to what he sees as a lack of adversity in Ennis’ career so far, suggesting the Philadelphia fighter has yet to be tested under tough conditions.
“Everything. He’s never been uncomfortable. He’s always had it his way,” Zayas said. “He’s always had fighters who put up a little fight, and then they quit.”
Zayas believes that will change when they meet, describing himself as a different kind of opponent compared to what Ennis has faced thus far.
“When you have a young champion who is willing to risk everything to go in there, it’s scary,” he said. “He has me in front of him now and he will have to adapt because he will be really uncomfortable come fight night.”
In addition to questioning Ennis’ resume, Zayas also highlighted technical areas he plans to target in the fight.
“He eats every straight shot. He eats every corner,” Zayas said. “There are many things I can take advantage of.”
Zayas insisted the fight went off without a hitch, in contrast to previous negotiations involving other contenders.
“It was an easy negotiation. We both wanted to fight. There are no ifs,” he said. “When both fighters want it, it’s an easy conversation to have.”
The fight between Zayas and Ennis is scheduled for June 27 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
