Jaron “Boots” Ennis didn’t manage to snag a big name for his super welterweight debut, but he did get a home game, as Matchroom announced today that he’ll face Uisma Lima in a WBA final eliminator on October 11th in Philly.
Lima (14-1, 10 KO) is, at least on paper, a reasonably tough introduction to the 154-pound ranks. Though he dropped a decision to Aaron McKenna in 2023, he’s taken out three consecutive undefeated opponents in hostile territory, beating Haro Matevosyan in Germany, Sukhdeep Singh Bhatti in Canada, and Shervantaigh Koopman in South Africa. He’ll bring the IBO championship OF THE WORLD with him to the ring.
This should fast-track Ennis (34-0, 31 KO) to a title shot if he emerges victorious, but it’s a bit unclear what “final eliminator” means in this situation. Despite the fact that Terence Crawford is clearly done with the division, the WBA has yet to strip him. Maybe it’ll set up a fight with interim champ Yoenis Tellez if he gets past Abass Baraou? If not, The Ring claims that “the plan” is to pit Ennis against Vergil Ortiz Jr.
”They can say what they want, it doesn’t make me a difference – these dudes can’t tie my shoes,” said Ennis. “I’m the best in the world and they know it! I want all the big names and belts. The tour continues.”
“I am very excited to be taking on the biggest challenge of my life against a legit, world-level fighter in Ennis,” said Lima. “I believe in myself … we will be coming to war. Please don’t take me lightly, Boots, as I am coming to win.”
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