Jaron Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) won the purse bid for his new promotional team's mandatory IBF world welterweight title defense against Cody Crowley (22-0, 9 KOs) in Philadelphia He will make his Matchroom boxing debut.
Ennis was announced by Matchroom last week, and TGB Promotions, who represented Crowley during negotiations, made a bid of $2 million, compared to Matchroom's bid of $3.9 million.
Protracted negotiations between Ennis and Crowley ended after repeated delays and postponements. The IBF originally ordered the contest and negotiations to begin on January 31st, but the deadline to reach an agreement was repeatedly pushed closer to March 1st and then March 19th.
A further deadline of March 26 was also rescinded after TGB Promotions notified the IBF that a “mutual agreement” had been reached regarding the bout.
Ultimately, no agreement could be reached, and IBF champion Ennis signed a multi-fight deal with Matchroom Boxing on April 10. IBF also set a new date for the IBF purse bid between Ennis and Crowley based on Ennis' new promotional contract and arrangement.
Under IBF rules, the champion is entitled to a share of 85 percent of the prize money, totaling $3,323,500.
Crowley, ranked No. 3, is entitled to a purse of $586,500.
Speaking to his in-house media team, Matchroom's Eddie Hearn confirmed that they are targeting a July date for the event in Philadelphia.
“Finally, the wallet was bid and we won.” [the purse bid]'' Hahn said. “I won a big wallet today, so I’m going to take the boots with me.” [Ennis] Hometown of Philadelphia.
“We have a big Jaron Ennis show coming up in Philadelphia in July. It's time to bring this superstar back to his home city.”
“We’ll have an announcement soon about the venue and confirmed date, and we’re really happy to be able to bring it to Jaron.”
