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You aren’t likely to catch Jaron Ennis bloviating endlessly about himself. He knows he’s good. So does everyone else.
Trash-talking isn’t something that Ennis indulges in but his performances have forced those in the welterweight division to take notice. Errol Spence Jr., the WBA, WBC, and IBF 147-pound titlist, is currently preparing for the fight of his life.
On July 29th, the longtime champion will finally trade fists with Terence Crawford. Preparation has been detailed orientated and arduous. In short, Spence needs it to be. Still, despite spending countless hours breaking down tape of Crawford and working on his mental, Spence took a pause to watch Ennis go to work.
July 8th produced a brutal beating for Roiman Villa. The Columbian contender tucked his chin and met Ennis in the center of the ring. His offense has always been a bit myopic but also incredibly effective. On this night, nothing he threw at Ennis worked.
The smooth switch-hitter pounded his man, using pernicious shot after pernicious shot until Villa eventually crumbled. Spence (28-0, 22 KOs) has kept a close eye on Ennis and has admitted that he has the goods. His latest showing, nevertheless, has taken Spence’s admiration and awe to another level.
“He nice as hell,” said Spence to BoxingScene.com.
At this stage, it’s all about luring the big names into the ring. Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) has toyed with his lower-level opposition but has warned the likes of Spence and Crawford that he’ll do the same to them if he’s given the opportunity.
That aforementioned opportunity, however, doesn’t appear likely. Ennis may hold the IBF interim title, making him the mandatory challenger to Spence, but the unified champ is sick and tired of making weight. As soon as the dust settles after his Crawford showdown, Spence fully intends on moving up.
A dream clash between Spence and Ennis isn’t entirely out the window. Does Spence enjoy squeezing down his frame to the 147-pound limit? Not at all. But you know the old saying right? Money talks.
“If the money right, I’ll fight anybody.”