The fight fans' excitement is about to escalate—here's where controversy begins! Promoter Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron 'Boots' Ennis are on the verge of finalizing a highly anticipated showdown, and insiders suggest negotiations could wrap up as early as next week. This blockbuster match-up is being scheduled for the first quarter of 2026, signaling an eagerly awaited clash between two undefeated contenders.
This news comes as a surprise to many. Just hours before the announcement, Ortiz, who holds the interim WBC 154-pound title with a record of 24 wins and 22 knockouts, and Ennis, the unified welterweight champion with a perfect 35-0 record and 31 KOs, had posted cryptic comments on social media indicating that talks were slow or stalled. Ortiz even expressed to BoxingScene that he wasn't surprised by the delays, implying he expects Ennis to shy away from a fight.
However, Golden Boy Promotions President Eric Gomez, speaking at the WBC’s online mandatory meeting, revealed that he is actively negotiating with Ennis's team—led by Matchroom’s Eddie Hearn—and remains optimistic about reaching an agreement soon. Gomez stated that a deal could be finalized by next week, inviting intrigue about how this blockbuster could come together.
But here’s the twist: Gomez also indicated that discussions are ongoing with major promoters and platforms like Matchroom and DAZN, aiming to present Ortiz with a solid deal next week. He emphasized the mutual desire of both fighters to get in the ring, noting, 'When both fighters want it, it usually happens.'
Looking ahead, with Sebastian Fundora, the full WBC 154-pound champion, eyeing a title defense against former welterweight king Keith Thurman in February, Gomez confirmed that Ortiz plans to face the winner of that showdown after tackling Ennis. The boxing world waits with bated breath for these matchups, which could reshape the landscape of the 154-pound division.
And this is the part most people miss—negotiations often appear straightforward but are filled with strategic moves and behind-the-scenes negotiations that can make or break a fight. Do you believe Ortiz and Ennis will finally settle their differences early next week? Or might these talks hit an unexpected snag? Share your thoughts—are you excited or skeptical about this planned clash?
