Possible Next Opponents for Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis That’s Not Terence Crawford

Jaron “Boots” Ennis (32-0, 29 KOs) successfully defended his IBF welterweight title against David Avanesyan (30-5-1, 18 KOs) with the referee, on advice from the ringside physician, stopped the fight before the beginning of round six. The entire card was shown live globally on DAZN and promoted by Matchroom Boxing. Following the fight attention now turns to who “Boots” could face in his next fight.

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis Next Fight: Three Potential Opponents

Mario Barrios

Eddie Hearn and “Boots” have made it clear they only desire big fights, and a unification fight looks likely to be next with a possible bout against WBC welterweight world champion Mario Barrios. Since losing back-to-back contests to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman, the Texan fighter has bounced back with three consecutive wins, including last time out against Fabián Maidana.

Barrios carries power in both hands, whether it’s a left hook or a right hand – he’s capable of doing damage. Now that “Boots” has blown the cobwebs away, his ability to time his punches, combined with his excellent movement, could see him be a nightmare opponent for Barrios.

Eimantas Stanionis

The reigning WBA welterweight champion Eimantas Stanionis is another likely next opponent for “Boots.” The Lithuanian fighter is coming off a comfortable return to action, where he defeated Gabriel Maestre by unanimous decision, with the scorecards reading 119-109, 118-110 and 117-111. The Lithuanian needs to stay active after two years out of the ring, and a fight against “Boots” would be fascinating.

The 2016 Olympian is a talented fighter – who likes to come forward and pick his punches with poise and maturity. He looks to use his jab with conviction, controlling the distance and mixing his attacks well. “Boots” will look to counter the aggression of the Lithuanian like he did to great effect against Avanesyan. Stanionis keeps a high guard, but “Boots” carries plenty of power to break through that guard.

In an ideal world, it seems Ennis would want Stanionis and Barrios first, and if successful, he would want a massive fight against Terence Crawford.