Jaron Ennis is currently the man to beat in the welterweight ranks.
The Philly native has quickly established himself as a formidable force in the welterweight division. The Philadelphia fighter currently has an undefeated record of 32 wins, with 29 victories coming by knockout and is a powerful switch-hitter who fights on the front foot.
In January 2023 he won the interim IBF welterweight title by defeating Karen Chukhadzhian via unanimous decision, defended the belt with a 10th-round knockout of Roman Villa and was elevated to full champion in November last year after then-undisputed champion Terence Crawford was stripped of the title due to contractual obligations and a subsequent move up in weight.
In July 2024, Ennis defended his full title against David Avanesyan and this weekend he returns to defend it in a rematch against Chukhadzhian in his hometown.
Ennis’ promoter Eddie Hearn has now mentioned on Instagram that Conor Benn is a certain opponent for ‘Boots’ should he remain in the welterweight division – not a given since he may move up to the 154 ranks.
“If Boots stays at 147 then this fight will happen.”
Benn recently declared himself free to box once more after a saga that has lasted more than two years since he was pulled from a fight with Chris Eubank Jr in October 2023 due to failed doping tests. He has fought just twice out in the US while he has battled to clear his name.
Benn is most often linked with what would be a bitter grudge match with Eubank Jr, but a fight against ‘Boots’ would mark a huge step up compared to his past competition.
