Jaron Ennis vs Vergil Ortiz Jr – Xander Zayas predicts ‘belt to a**’

The super welterweight division continues to present many possible mouthwatering matchups. Xander Zayas recently won the vacant WBO super welterweight title, defeating Jorge Garcia Perez by unanimous decision. He is due to defend that title against Abass Baraou on January 31. While previewing his upcoming fight against Baraou with Boxing Social, Zayas discussed a potential Jaron Ennis vs Vergil Ortiz Jr (24-0, 22 KOs) fight, revealing his pick.

Jaron Ennis vs Vergil Ortiz Jr – Zayas predicts the winner

While previewing his upcoming world title defence against Baraou, Zayas was asked about a potential matchup between his divisional rivals, Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs) and Ortiz:

“Jaron Ennis, excuse my French, is going to put belt to a**! 

“I feel like Jaron Ennis is gonna beat Vergil Ortiz. He has all the attributes to beat him. Athletic, strong, fast, sharp, great defence, great movement. Ortiz is just strong,” said Zayas, predicting the potential bout.

Super welterweight picture

Ortiz’s manager, Rick Mirigian, recently told BoxingScene that DAZN is insisting that Ortiz promoter Oscar De La Hoya and Ennis promoter Eddie Hearn reach a deal to make this superfight with Las Vegas in the early spring mooted for the place and date for the 154lbs showdown.

Even without a world title, this is undoubtedly one of the biggest fights to be made in boxing. Should Zayas beat Baraou, could he fight the winner of Ennis-Ortiz?

Matchroom vs Golden Boy adds another layer to a potential Ennis vs Ortiz fight, and it’s one that would be a huge boost for boxing, especially U.S. boxing. The other champions at 154lbs are Bakhram Murtazaliev (IBF), who defends his title against Josh Kelly on January 31. The WBC champion is Sebastian Fundora, who won both of his fights in 2025, defeating Chordale Booker and Tim Tszyu.

What fight would you like to see at 154lbs? Will Ennis vs Ortiz be confirmed?