The Disappointment of a Missed Showdown: Vergil Ortiz Jr. vs. Jaron Ennis
Boxing fans were buzzing about a potential clash between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, but it looks like we won’t see that fight anytime soon. Rick Mirigian, Ortiz’s manager, is understandably frustrated. He believes the breakdown in negotiations is not just a missed opportunity for the fighters but also a major letdown for […]
Boxing fans were buzzing about a potential clash between Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Jaron “Boots” Ennis, but it looks like we won’t see that fight anytime soon. Rick Mirigian, Ortiz’s manager, is understandably frustrated. He believes the breakdown in negotiations is not just a missed opportunity for the fighters but also a major letdown for boxing fans everywhere.
What Went Wrong?
Mirigian’s disappointment kicked in after Ennis’s recent win over Karen Chukhadzhian in November. Following that fight, Ennis made some comments that raised eyebrows. He hinted at possibly moving up to junior middleweight, making everyone wonder if he was backing away from a showdown with Ortiz. Both Ennis’s trainer, Derek “Bozy” Ennis, and promoter Eddie Hearn echoed this idea, suggesting a shift to the 154-pound weight class might be on the horizon.
Mirigian didn’t hold back in voicing his frustration. “The weight wasn’t an issue,” he said. “If you listen to Ennis’s own words after the fight, he said he wanted to fight at 154. His trainer and promoter backed him up on that too.” He felt like they were all playing games—calling out Ortiz but then turning their backs when it came to making the fight happen.
“I thought Boots was one of those special talents that nobody would want to fight. I didn’t think he’d pull out of this,” Mirigian added, highlighting his initial hope that the fight would go down.
Missed Chances and Public Perception
This whole situation is more than just a disappointment for Mirigian; it’s a huge loss for boxing fans. He reflected on how fans will never get to see what could’ve been a legendary fight. Ortiz was ready to go and agreed to terms without hesitation, while the Ennis camp seemed hesitant.
“The worst part? They had everything handed to them—a big payday and a chance to shine. But they still ran away,” Mirigian stated. He believes Ortiz would’ve stepped into the ring without any drama.
The real sticking point here seems to be weight class. Ennis holds the IBF welterweight title, but Ortiz can no longer make that weight. That might explain why Ennis and his camp seemed reluctant to finalize the fight.
Ennis Addresses the Situation
After all this, Ennis took to social media to clear the air. “I saw the rumors about the fight with Vergil just like everyone else,” he wrote on X. “I had no idea negotiations were happening on my end.” He made it clear that fans should only listen to him regarding his future plans, whether he’s staying at welterweight or moving up.
This confusion has put a serious dent in any chance of these two getting in the ring together anytime soon. Mirigian made it plain that Ortiz isn’t interested in going down this road again. “Boots won’t get another shot at Vergil, and honestly, he seems okay with that,” he said, implying that Ennis might not be keen on the fight after all.
At the end of the day, boxing fans are left hanging. The potential matchup between Ortiz and Ennis had everything it takes to be a blockbuster. Instead, we’re left wondering what could have been—a true shame for the sport and its supporters. As boxing fans, we just want to see the best fight the best. Let’s hope we get those matchups soon!
