Promoter Eddie Hearn reveals that his offers to the three welterweight champions were turned down for potential unification bouts. Despite the rejections, Hearn remains optimistic about arranging a fight for IBF welterweight champion Boots. If the fight against WBO champ Brian Norman Jr. doesn’t materialize, Boots is likely to face his IBF mandatory Karen Chukhadzhian in a rematch in Philadelphia.
It is unclear whether significant offers were made to the champions, but it is evident that substantial financial incentives may be necessary for them to agree to a fight against Boots. Without the belief that they can secure a victory, the champions may not be willing to step into the ring unless they are offered substantial purses. As Boots is not yet a pay-per-view draw, the lack of a big fight that can generate significant buys may hinder negotiations with the three belt-holders.
Hearn’s attempts to secure a fight with WBO champion Brian Norman Jr. have hit a roadblock, with offers being rejected and a counteroffer allegedly made by Norman’s camp. While Hearn expresses interest in making the fight happen, he challenges Norman to demonstrate sincerity and willingness to step up to the challenge. It is speculated that WBC champion Barrios may be holding out for a lucrative bout against Manny Pacquiao, a fight that offers both financial rewards and a perceived winnable opportunity.
Given the reluctance of the welterweight champions to entertain unification fights, Ennis may need to consider moving up to the 154-pound division where securing fights could be more straightforward. The prospect of collecting all the belts at 147 pounds seems increasingly unlikely unless Hearn is willing to offer substantial financial incentives to the champions. The current champions may opt to prolong their title reigns by taking on weaker opposition for easy defenses rather than risking a loss against a formidable opponent like Boots.
In addition to the financial hurdles, Boots and Hearn must navigate through promotional and network obstacles in their quest for unification fights against the welterweight champions. These external factors further complicate the negotiation process, potentially necessitating Hearn to overpay to secure the desired matchups. However, Hearn’s reluctance to overspend raises doubts about the feasibility of arranging these high-stakes bouts in the near future.
The path to securing unification fights for Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis is fraught with challenges, including financial demands, champion reluctances, and promotional barriers. Despite the setbacks, Ennis and his team remain determined to elevate his status in the welterweight division and secure opportunities to prove his mettle against the best in the weight class.