The boxing world is abuzz with the recent turn of events surrounding the highly-anticipated match between Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr. The super welterweight showdown, initially slated for March, has hit a snag, opening the door for a former world champion to step into the fray.
The bout between Ennis and Ortiz Jr. has been thrown into uncertainty following Ortiz’s legal action against Oscar De La Hoya’s Golden Boy Promotions. Ortiz filed a lawsuit on Thursday, citing breach of contract and interference with earnings, stemming from stalled negotiations for the Ennis fight. Ortiz contends that his promotional agreement allowed him to depart from De La Hoya’s company if they lost their deal with DAZN, which reportedly concluded on December 31.
Golden Boy Promotions, however, maintains that Ortiz remains under their promotional banner. In a statement, they expressed confidence that a judge would uphold the validity of their contract and rule that Ortiz and his team are in breach.
Amidst this legal tussle, former undisputed champion Jermell Charlo has thrown his hat into the ring, challenging both Ennis and Ortiz. The 35-year-old, who last fought in a unanimous decision loss to Canelo Alvarez in September 2023, seems eager to return to the spotlight.
“Boxing is not a team sport. So the next move is always the best move,” Charlo posted on social media. “Idk wtf they fussing about.. but I’ve always heard you doing something right when the other team start to feud. 154 is the most overlooked division. I’ll fix the problem, send me contact ODH [Oscar De La Hoya] or [Ennis’ promoter] Eddie [Hearn].”
Ennis, fresh off his first-round knockout of Uisma Lima in October, had previously called out Charlo. The pair exchanged words ringside during Ortiz’s stoppage victory over Erickson Lubin in November, before Ennis entered the ring to face off with Ortiz.
Despite the apparent interest from both sides, Hearn expressed doubts about reaching an agreement with Charlo in an interview last October. “I like the fight, I just don’t think he’ll take it. These guys just price themselves out straight away,” Hearn said.
As the contractual disputes continue, the boxing community waits with bated breath to see how this drama unfolds and whether Charlo’s challenge will inject new life into the super welterweight division.
Team_TBE Boxing
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