Eddie Hearn Highlights Weight Class Issues for Jaron Ennis vs. Vergil Ortiz Jr. Showdown

Boxing fans are buzzing about the potential fight between Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr. However, Eddie Hearn, Ennis’s promoter, has brought up an important hurdle that could affect this highly anticipated matchup: the weight class. With both fighters looking at a possible showdown on February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, figuring out where they’ll fight is crucial for everyone involved.

The Weight Class Challenge

Eddie Hearn recently discussed the situation, making it clear that while they were initially thinking about a fight at 147 pounds, things have gotten a bit complicated. Ortiz, who holds the WBC interim title at 154 pounds, adds a layer of complexity to the negotiations. Ennis, the current IBF welterweight champion with an impressive 33-0 record (29 KOs), is willing to move up to 154 pounds, but that could mean giving up his title.

“We don’t have a problem moving to 154,” Hearn said in an interview with Fight Hub TV. “But when we do it, we’ll probably lose our championship.” This kind of decision is a big deal in boxing. Moving weight classes can impact a fighter’s career, and both fighters have a lot at stake.

Why This Fight Matters

A matchup between Ennis and Ortiz isn’t just any fight; it’s a huge deal for both fighters and their fans. Both are undefeated, with Ortiz sitting at 22-0 (21 KOs), making this potential bout one of the most exciting prospects for 2024. Hearn emphasized that this fight is not only about legacy; it’s also a major financial opportunity, especially with a big-money event planned in Saudi Arabia.

“If it’s not Ortiz, it has to be unification,” Hearn noted. “But Jaron wants to be in big fights, and the Ortiz fight is a big fight in Saudi.” This kind of ambition is common in boxing today, where fighters are eager to face top competition to boost their status and draw in big audiences.

What’s Next for Ennis and Ortiz?

As discussions continue, both Ennis and Ortiz have some tough choices ahead. Moving up to 154 pounds could create new opportunities, but it also comes with risks. Ennis has made it clear he wants high-stakes fights, and if he can’t land a bout with Ortiz, he might pivot to pursuing unification fights in the welterweight division instead.

Fans are on the edge of their seats, hoping for a resolution that allows these two fighters to face off. A fight between Ennis and Ortiz has the potential to be a game-changer in the boxing world, with both fighters looking to make their mark.

As the February 22 date approaches, discussions about weight class and potential matchups will likely heat up. With so much on the line, the anticipation for the Ennis vs. Ortiz fight keeps building, promising an unforgettable showdown that could reshape boxing in 2024.