Boxing fans eager for a blockbuster welterweight showdown between Jaron “Boots” Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs) and Vergil Ortiz Jr. (22-0, 21 KOs) were dealt a heavy blow as the fight, once agreed upon, has now officially fallen through. Esteemed boxing journalist Dan Rafael reported the disappointing development, though the specific reasons behind the deal’s collapse remain undisclosed.
The bout was slated to be a major attraction on a Saudi mega card organized by Turki Alalshikh for the Riyadh Season on February 22. The failed negotiations have not only dashed the hopes of fans craving this clash of unbeaten stars but have also left event organizers scrambling to find a suitable replacement opponent for Ortiz.
The unraveling of this highly anticipated bout doesn’t come as a complete surprise. Promoter Eddie Hearn had recently hinted that Ennis might vacate his IBF welterweight title to explore opportunities at 154 pounds or pursue unification fights against other welterweight champions. For Ortiz, the setback is particularly frustrating as he seeks a high-profile fight to solidify his place among the division’s elite.
Meanwhile, the Saudi organizers must now pivot quickly to salvage their high-stakes event. With Ennis and Ortiz both holding considerable momentum, fans can only hope that circumstances will eventually allow these two explosive talents to meet in the ring. Until then, speculation over their respective futures continues to swirl.
