Hearn Eyes Crawford Vs. Ennis Mega-Fight After Electrifying Philadelphia Event
Promoter Eddie Hearn has set the boxing world abuzz with his latest revelation. Following a successful event in Philadelphia, Hearn has discussed the potential for a mega-fight between Terence Crawford and Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis, igniting excitement and speculation among fans and pundits alike.
The Philadelphia Phenomenon
The recent IBF welterweight title defense by Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis against David Avanesyan drew an impressive crowd of 14,000 fans at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia. Ennis (32-0, 29 KOs) secured a fifth-round stoppage victory over Avanesyan (30-5-1, 18 KOs), a performance that underscored his rising star power and the city’s hunger for high-caliber boxing events.
Alalshikh’s Interest in Crawford vs. Ennis
Hearn revealed that His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, a prominent figure in promoting massive sporting events, watched the Ennis-Avanesyan fight and expressed interest in staging a bout between Ennis, 27, and Terence Crawford. Hearn emphasized the urgency of this match happening soon, ideally before Crawford faces Canelo Alvarez.
Timing and Stakes
For Hearn, the timing is crucial. A fight between Ennis and Crawford holds more significance if Crawford remains unbeaten. Crawford’s potential move up two weight classes to fight Canelo at 168 pounds is seen as a risky venture, given the considerable weight jump and Crawford’s age. Some believe Crawford is eyeing a lucrative payday before retirement, which makes an immediate fight with Ennis all the more appealing.
The Spectacle of Boots Ennis
Eddie Hearn was effusive in his praise for the Philadelphia event, noting the massive turnout and the electrifying atmosphere. “He wants to make the biggest fights. He watched tonight and saw one of the biggest crowds in America this year. Over 14,000 were in here tonight. It was incredible,” Hearn told iFL TV, referring to Alalshikh’s reaction to the event.
Potential Venues: Philadelphia or Riyadh?
Hearn remains non-committal about the potential venue for a Crawford vs. Ennis fight. While Philadelphia has proven to be a strong market for Ennis, there’s also the allure of staging the fight in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Crawford, with his superior accomplishments, would likely prefer a neutral venue over Ennis’s hometown.
The Appeal of Crawford vs. Ennis
The fight between Crawford and Ennis is not just about titles but about legacy and the future of the welterweight division. Hearn highlighted that Alalshikh was impressed by Ennis’s skills and sees a match with Crawford as one of the biggest in boxing. “Boots spoke to Turki and said, ‘Send me the contract.’ That’s a fight they want to make; if he [Crawford] gets past Israil Madrimov, we’ll be open to discussing it,” Hearn added.
Crawford’s Challenge Against Madrimov
Before any talks of a Crawford vs. Ennis fight can proceed, Crawford must first overcome WBA junior middleweight champion Israil Madrimov on August 3rd at the BMO Stadium in Philadelphia. This bout poses significant challenges for the 36-year-old Crawford, who is fighting in his fourth weight class and coming off a long layoff.
Ennis’s Performance and Future
Boots Ennis demonstrated his prowess against Avanesyan, showing no signs of nerves despite the high stakes. Hearn noted that Ennis was in control, even while entertaining the crowd by staying close and fighting Avanesyan’s fight. This performance solidifies Ennis as a formidable contender in the welterweight division and a potential heir to Crawford’s throne.
The Strategic Implications
From a strategic standpoint, Crawford’s team must weigh the risks and rewards of a fight against Ennis. Crawford’s superior accomplishments and previous PPV success make him the A-side in negotiations, but Ennis’s rising star and undefeated record present a significant challenge.
Looking Ahead
The prospect of a Crawford vs. Ennis fight promises to be a major event in the boxing calendar. Fans are eagerly awaiting Crawford’s next move and whether he will take on the young, hungry lion in Ennis. For now, all eyes are on Crawford’s upcoming fight against Madrimov and the potential blockbuster that could follow.
