Winning a world title would be a great achievement for practically every boxer. The same applies to Jaron “Boots” Ennis. He hasn’t done so yet, but at this point, considering the damage he’s inflicting on just about everyone that steps in the ring with him, it’s just a matter of time before Ennis snags his first championship trinket.
Taking home a belt would be appreciated, but it isn't something that Ennis is truly focusing on. Well, it is, but not entirely. As we all know, four fighters in a given division can be considered a world champion thanks to the proliferation of titles in every weight class.
While it’s seldom, more ambitious fighters throw on their hard caps and begin the clean-up process. Prior to last weekend, Canelo Alvarez, Jermell Charlo, and Devin Haney - were the only active male fighters who successfully wiped out the rest of their respective divisions and reign supreme as undisputed champions.
Ennis, who campaigns at 147 pounds, is unsure when he’ll fight for his first title, let alone all four. Regardless of when and where he gets his shot on the big stage, Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) is just hoping that someone will give him the chance to prove that he’s the new top dog.
“I don’t care where the opportunity comes,” said Ennis to Brian Custer on The Last Stand Podcast. “As long as I get my opportunity to be undisputed.”
Normally, opportunities aren't given, they’re earned. But keeping in mind his recent track record, Ennis has done just that. Roiman Villa, his latest victim, would also agree.
Last month, at the Ballroom Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, Ennis savagely beat Roiman, becoming the first man to stop the Colombian.
On July 29th, however, at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada, Terence Crawford battered and stopped Errol Spence Jr. to become the undisputed champion at welterweight.
Ennis is the mandatory challenger under the IBF.
Spence is planning to exercise an immediate rematch clause, with the second fight likely to take place at 154-pounds.
Crawford's win has made him become the first male undisputed boxer in two separate weight classes. That goal is noteworthy but only a footnote when juxtaposed with what Ennis wants to do when his career is all said and done.
“My goal is to be undisputed at 47, 54, 60, and 68. We got some work to do.”