Jaron Ennis is set to defend his IBF welterweight title for the first time against David Avanesyan today at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. This event will be Ennis' first headline fight in his hometown in six years, and he is eager to showcase his skills on a grand stage.
Ennis is determined to establish himself as the new face of the welterweight division now that former undisputed champion Terence Crawford has moved up to 154 pounds. The IBF elevated Ennis from interim champion to full title status after stripping Crawford for failing to make a mandatory defense. Ennis aims to make a statement in his fight against Avanesyan, demonstrating his dominance at 147 pounds.
“I’m excited to get in the ring and put on a beautiful show, have fun, look good, pick apart Avanesyan, break him down, and beat him up for the knockout to get the ball rolling. Saturday night is going to be a statement. I am putting 147 pounds on notice."
The DAZN Boxing Show | Jaron Ennis vs David Avanesyan Preview: Watch
Despite a 12-month layoff, the longest of his career, Ennis remains focused and ready to perform. He recently resolved a legal dispute with his former promoter, allowing him to sign with Matchroom and continue his career under Eddie Hearn's guidance. Ennis appreciates Hearn's approach to managing fighters and is confident that this partnership will benefit his career.
"I want what is best for my career. I like how Eddie Hearn moves his fighters. I like the things he does and the way he treats his guys. I just went that way. I like how Eddie does the talking for me. I'm glad I got Eddie behind me. That makes a perfect pair."
Ennis has aspirations beyond defending his title. He aims to become an undisputed champion in four weight divisions: 147, 154, 160, and 168 pounds. While he missed opportunities to face top welterweights like Crawford, Spence, and Pacquiao, he remains focused on his current challenge against Avanesyan. Ennis acknowledges that Avanesyan is a formidable opponent but is confident in his preparation and abilities.
"I think David is a better opponent but Cody is tougher. I guess you can say Avanesyan brings pressure [in what he does well]. He kind of fights like my last opponent [Villa], he just looks like a smaller version of that. All Avanesyan does is bring pressure and doesn’t move his head."
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