IBF welterweight champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis has signed a multi-fight promotional deal with Matchroom.
The 26-year-old Philadelphia native last fought in July 2023, when he knocked out Royman Villa in the 10th round of an interim title fight in Atlantic City. Three months later, after the sanctioning body stripped Terrence “Bud” Crawford of his belt, the IBF elevated him to full champion status. Crawford defeated his closest rival Errol Spence Jr. that summer to become the undisputed welterweight champion, but still holds the WBC, IBF and WBA titles. He won the title at 147 pounds.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn has made no secret of his admiration for Ennis, who has a record of 31-0 (28 wins), and held discussions with representatives of the titlist last year. It is reported that. Ennis was promoted by Cameron Dunkin and fought on Showtime during a broadcast deal with Premier Boxing Champions, which ended last year, with Amazon Prime joining PBC as the new broadcast partner.
Hearn, who has already promoted the likes of Jesse Rodriguez, Devin Haney and Edgar Berlanga Stateside, welcomes Hearn, who is set to return to the ring this summer for his first title defense.
“We are excited about our partnership with Eddie Hearn, Matchroom and DAZN,” Ennis said.
“I can’t wait to continue making my mark and becoming the undisputed world champion. I’ve been away from the ring for a year, but I’m back and doing what I do best, entertaining the fans and putting on a clinic.” I can’t wait to do it. It’s a big game for me and I’m ready to make it happen.”
Hearn expressed his delight at the latest addition to Matchroom Boxing's roster.
“Wow, what a sign. I've been watching this guy for years and I always believed he was going to be a pound-for-pound great, and I think he's one of the best in this division. There is no doubt that he is a great fighter.
“Holding the IBF title in one of boxing's most glamorous divisions puts Jaron front and center in the sport's biggest fights, and we intend to deliver for him.
“Furron has everything it takes to make a name for himself both in the sports world and in the sports hotbed of his hometown of Philadelphia, and we are dedicated to developing him there. Fight fans will be excited about his return in the summer as we look to chase down the biggest fights that will move us up the four-pound list.”
