By Arthur Rooks, Boxing Contributor

The welterweight division is heating up with the potential unification clash between rising star Brian Norman Jr. and IBF champion Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis. Brian Norman Jr.’s father and trainer, Brian Norman Sr., recently announced that they are “very close” to finalizing a deal for the much-anticipated fight, scheduled for November 9th in Philadelphia. Both camps are eager to make this bout happen, as it promises to be a thrilling matchup between two undefeated fighters.

Norman Jr. (26-0, 20 KOs) is coming off a spectacular tenth-round knockout victory over Giovani Santillan on May 18th in San Diego, showcasing his power and precision. On the other hand, Ennis (32-0, 29 KOs), the current IBF champion, has solidified his status as one of the most feared fighters in the division, boasting an impressive knockout ratio and a commanding unanimous decision victory over Karen Chukhadzhian last year.

This potential unification fight is not just a clash of champions but a necessary event for the welterweight division. As Norman Sr. emphasized, “We want this fight to happen, Ennis wants this fight to happen, the welterweight division needs this fight to happen, and we’re gonna make it happen.” The alternative for Ennis—a mandatory IBF title defense against Chukhadzhian—is far less appealing, considering the lack of fan interest and the fact that Ennis already dominated Chukhadzhian in a one-sided bout.

A unification bout with Norman Jr. would not only determine the top welterweight in the world but also bring much-needed excitement and clarity to the division. As negotiations near completion, boxing fans are eagerly awaiting an official announcement, hoping to witness a battle that could define the next era of welterweight champions.