Get ready for an explosive announcement! The boxing world is buzzing with anticipation as we delve into the highly anticipated showdown between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron "Boots" Ennis. This mouth-watering match-up, currently in the works, promises to be a highlight of the 2026 boxing calendar.
The revelation that talks are underway has sent shockwaves through the boxing community. Just hours after Ortiz, the unbeaten interim WBC 154lbs champion, and Ennis, the recently unified welterweight champion, exchanged cryptic social media posts, promoter Eric Gomez dropped a bombshell. Appearing before the WBC board, Gomez, the President of Golden Boy Promotions, confirmed that he's actively negotiating with Ennis' team, led by Matchroom's Eddie Hearn. He believes a deal could be sealed as early as next week.
But here's where it gets controversial... Ortiz, with an impressive record of 24-0 (22 KOs), and Ennis, 35-0 (31 KOs), have a history of exchanging words, with Ortiz expressing doubts about Ennis' willingness to step into the ring with him. Despite this, Gomez remains optimistic, stating, "We're in talks with Matchroom and DAZN, and we plan to meet with Vergil and his team next week to present them with the details. It's the fight he wants, a big fight, and he's ready for it."
When asked about the potential deal's terms, Gomez emphasized the fighters' mutual desire to face each other. "The most important thing is that both fighters want this fight. The details will be ironed out with Matchroom, but we're currently finalizing the finer points with DAZN. If everything falls into place, we'll present the offer to Vergil, and he'll make the final call."
And this is the part most people miss... With the WBC's full 154lbs champion, Sebastian Fundora, expected to defend his title against former welterweight champion Keith Thurman in February, Gomez revealed that Ortiz intends to face the winner of that bout after his encounter with Ennis.
So, will this highly anticipated fight deliver on the hype? Only time will tell. But one thing's for sure: the boxing world is eagerly awaiting the outcome of these negotiations.
What do you think? Is this the fight you've been waiting for? Or do you have your doubts? Share your thoughts in the comments and let's spark a discussion!
