Jaron Ennis: Is He Too Scared To Move Up?

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis took to social media to announce that 2025 is set to be an outstanding year for him. The 27-year-old has his sights set on the welterweight titles in his quest to become an undisputed champion.

Despite his impressive record of 33-0 with 29 knockouts, there are doubts about Boots’ willingness to move up to 154 and 160 weight classes for more lucrative fights.

(Photo credit: Mark Robinson/Matchroom Boxing)

Ennis remains focused on unifying the welterweight division at 147, turning down opportunities to face WBC interim Junior middleweight champion Vergil Ortiz Jr. in the higher weight classes.

Is 147 a Dead End for Boots?

There is a perception among boxing fans that Boots lacks the ambition and bravery to explore new challenges in his career. Instead, he seems content to pursue his goal of becoming the undisputed champion in a relatively stagnant welterweight division.

Promoter Eddie Hearn may be feeling frustrated as there are numerous intriguing matchups for Boots at 154, 160, and 168, but the boxer seems unwilling to take risks. Remaining at 147 could limit Boots’ potential, and Hearn might need to push for one unification fight in 2025 before looking elsewhere.

Boots’ lackluster performance against Karen Chukhadzhian has raised concerns about his drive and ambition, potentially hindering his future prospects.

Hearn’s Challenges with Boots

Following his disappointing fight, Hearn may rethink his strategy with Boots as the boxer seems hesitant to move up in weight classes. Despite having the physical attributes to compete in higher divisions, Boots seems to prefer playing it safe at 147.

It remains to be seen if Hearn can secure any significant fights for Boots in 2025, with a potential unification bout against WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis being the best-case scenario.

Boots’ tweet about his optimistic outlook for 2025 suggests he is ready for the challenges ahead, but it remains to be seen if he will be able to capitalize on the opportunities presented to him.