The news of the agreement between Bob Arum’s Top Rank and DAZN has raised hopes among many fans that we may see more big fights in the future between boxers promoted by rival companies. That hope now seems to be becoming reality, as WBA and WBO super welterweight world champion Xander Zayas and former WBA and IBF welterweight world champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis have signed contracts to face each other on June 27 in Brooklyn.
This is a fantastic matchup between two high-level fighters who, in addition to their immense talent, bring an exciting and entertaining style into the ring. On paper, it is exactly the kind of fight that can ignite fan enthusiasm and strengthen their love for the Sweet Science.
The Puerto Rican Zayas, just 23 years old, became world champion last summer when he earned a well-deserved points victory over the tough Mexican Jorge Garcia Perez. He later added the WBA belt, winning a unification bout against Germany’s Abass Baraou, defeating him more clearly than the judges’ scorecards suggested.
Jaron Ennis, also undefeated like the reigning champion, is 28 years old and has so far displayed sensational physical and technical qualities, dismantling his 35 opponents one after another with remarkable ease. The only fighter who has managed to give him some trouble so far is the very solid Ukrainian Karen Chukhadzhian, who twice withstood Ennis’ devastating punches through all twelve rounds, losing only on points.
Zayas, after building a reputation as a puncher early in his career, has developed a more cautious style as he stepped up in competition, focusing on distance control, footwork, and effective counterpunching. Ennis, on the other hand, typically favors a more aggressive approach, willingly engaging in close-range exchanges and relentlessly seeking the knockout.
The fight will be promoted jointly by Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, which manages Ennis’ career, and Bob Arum’s Top Rank, which represents Zayas. This collaboration has been made possible by the agreement both promoters have with DAZN, which will broadcast the event live.