The International Boxing Federation (IBF) has mandated a welterweight title defense for undefeated champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis against the #3 ranked contender, Cody Crowley. This decision requires Ennis to shift his focus from a voluntary defense to a mandatory challenge. The IBF has initiated a 30-day negotiation period starting January 31, aiming for the fight to take place on or before March 28, 2024.
IBF championship chairman Carlos Ortiz communicated the order to both camps, emphasizing the urgency of concluding negotiations by March 1, 2024. Failure to agree on terms within the stipulated period will lead the IBF to call for a purse bid. The matchup was somewhat unexpected, overshadowed by the sanctioning body’s announcement of a final eliminator between other contenders, leading many to believe Ennis was due for a voluntary defense.
His representation is currently under his father and head trainer, Derek “Bozy” Ennis, due to an ongoing lawsuit with NOW Boxing Promotions. TGB Promotions’ Tom Brown is negotiating on behalf of Crowley, who has been vocal about his struggle to land significant fights despite a perfect record.
Crowley, a 30-year-old southpaw training in Las Vegas, last fought in March 2023, securing a majority decision win over Abel Ramos. This victory advanced his standing with the WBC, but subsequent opportunities have been scarce, leading to his expressed frustration over career stagnation.
Ennis’s upgrade to full IBF welterweight titlist followed a period of negotiation complexities involving undisputed champion Terence “Bud” Crawford. With Crawford unable to proceed with a planned bout due to a contractual rematch with Errol Spence Jr., the IBF stripped Crawford of the title, positioning Ennis as the major titleholder.
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