Boots Demands a Straight Answer
Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs) is known for his straightforward approach both in and out of the ring. When Vergil Ortiz Jr. (24-0, 22 KOs) recently reminded him on social media of his past reluctance to fight, Ennis was not about to let the WBC interim junior middleweight champion play games. In a direct post on X, Ennis demanded a clear answer: “I’m not about to keep going back and forth. Are we fighting next or not? @EddieHearn @OscarDeLaHoya.” Ortiz Jr. responded by asking Ennis whether he had said no twice or let someone else do it for him, but Ennis’s call for a straightforward answer cut through the noise, highlighting his no-nonsense attitude.
Why Ortiz Jr. Keeps Looking Back
The fact that Ortiz Jr. is revisiting past interactions with Ennis suggests that he is not genuinely interested in the fight. This pattern of behavior indicates that he is likely looking for an excuse to avoid facing Ennis. Ortiz Jr.’s reluctance is not a new phenomenon; it has been evident in his interactions and body language. For example, when Ennis challenged him after his recent fight against Erickson Lubin on November 8th, Ortiz Jr.’s demeanor made it clear that he was not enthusiastic about the matchup. His recent mentions of Jermell Charlo and Errol Spence as potential opponents further solidify the notion that he is steering clear of Ennis.
Fans Call Out Vergil’s Deflection
Fans have keenly observed Ortiz Jr.’s deflections and are calling him out for avoiding Ennis. The body language and the tone of his responses on social media have raised red flags. The fans’ perception is that Ortiz Jr. is using every opportunity to dodge a fight with Ennis, who is a formidable opponent. This sentiment was further amplified when Ortiz Jr. mentioned other high-profile names as potential opponents, signaling a clear shift in his focus away from Ennis. The fans’ frustration is understandable, as they are eager to see a compelling matchup between two of the best in the junior middleweight division.
Vergil Jr’s Promoter’s Transparent Disinterest
Oscar De La Hoya, Ortiz Jr.’s promoter, has been even more transparent in his disinterest in the Ennis fight. At the post-fight press conference after the Lubin bout, De La Hoya’s comments revealed a clear lack of enthusiasm for the matchup. He stated, “The one thing about the Boots Ennis fight, yeah, we’ll discuss it—absolutely. And I will get the best terms, as long as they’re favorable to us, because [Vergil Jr] is the man. They are chasing him. Vergil Ortiz is the champion… We obviously have the upper hand, because he [Ortiz Jr] is the better man.” These comments are telling, as they are a form of brush-off, indicating that De La Hoya is not genuinely interested in making the fight happen. His focus on getting the best terms suggests that he sees little value in a fight with Ennis.
The Fans’ Perspective
The fans of boxing are known for their passion and their ability to see through the posturing and rhetoric. They have been closely following the interactions between Ennis and Ortiz Jr., and many are calling out Ortiz Jr. for his avoidance tactics. The fans want to see a matchup between two of the best fighters in the division, and they are frustrated by the perceived lack of respect and interest from Ortiz Jr. and his team. The fans’ voices on social media platforms have been loud and clear, demanding that the fight be made without further delays or excuses. Their enthusiasm and support for a high-stakes matchup between Ennis and Ortiz Jr. are undeniable.
Conclusion
The ongoing saga between Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis and Vergil Ortiz Jr. has captured the attention of the boxing world. Ennis’s direct approach and demand for a straight answer stand in stark contrast to Ortiz Jr.’s evasive tactics. The fans’ frustration is palpable, as they yearn to see a matchup that promises to be a thrilling and competitive fight. With Ortiz Jr.’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya, showing transparent disinterest, the prospects of the fight seem dim. However, the fans’ unwavering support and demand for the bout may yet pressure the fighters and their teams to finally make it happen.
