Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn recently had a conversation with His Excellency Turki Alalshikh via Facetime following Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis’ impressive fifth-round victory over David Avanesyan. During their conversation, Alalshikh expressed interest in arranging a fight between Terence Crawford and Boots Ennis if the highly anticipated Canelo Alvarez clash falls through. Hearn revealed that the fight between Crawford and Ennis has the potential to disrupt his plans to unify the 147-lb division.
While the financial incentive for Terence Crawford to face Boots Ennis may be enticing, it comes with significant risks. Defeat at the hands of Ennis could tarnish Crawford’s legacy and reinforce the perception that he was overrated for his victories over lower-tier opponents. Hearn compared Crawford to Adrien Broner, a fighter who held titles in multiple weight classes but avoided facing elite competition.
The proposed bout between Crawford and Ennis is seen as a crucial matchup for both fighters. For Ennis, it represents an opportunity to step up in competition and establish himself as a legitimate contender in the welterweight division. With Crawford aging and fighting infrequently, the window of opportunity to face him may be closing for Ennis.
Hearn expressed doubts about the likelihood of a Crawford vs. Alvarez showdown, citing the lack of interest from the Mexican superstar. Alvarez may see little benefit in facing Crawford, viewing it as a high-risk, low-reward proposition. This reluctance could open the door for the Crawford-Ennis fight to take center stage.
While the ultimate goal for Crawford is to unify the 147-lb division, the potential matchup with Ennis looms large as one of the biggest fights in the sport. Ennis’ dominant performance against Avanesyan showcased his skill and potential as a future world champion. The uncertainty surrounding Crawford’s future plans adds an element of intrigue to the welterweight landscape.
The proposed fight between Terence Crawford and Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis has the potential to reshape the 147-lb division. With both fighters eyeing significant challenges and opportunities, the outcome of this matchup could have far-reaching implications for the sport of boxing. As fans eagerly anticipate the possibility of this high-stakes showdown, the future of the welterweight division hangs in the balance.