Mirigian said he wasn’t given a reasonable framework beyond the single figure, which he described as well below what would be expected for a fight between rivals who haven’t lost in two decades. He added that a counter offer was submitted at the end of last year and dismissed without discussion.
Under Ortiz’s agreement with Golden Boy Promotions, Mirigian stated that the fighter must be given three options before the fight. According to Mirigian, Ennis was the only name put forward. Nothing else followed. The numbers haven’t changed at all.
That story is important because Jaron Ennis is not a typical defender or receiver. Ortiz holds the WBC interim title at 154 pounds and is slated to be one of the anchors of the division in the future. Ennis arrives as a recent unification champion from the welterweight division with a strong reputation and strength of his own. Making the fight a take-it-or-leave-it proposition has always led here.
Golden Boy chairman Oscar De La Hoya said Monday he was moving on after Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn did not respond to a deadline. Mirigian said deadlines have no meaning if the other side has not participated directly.
He also disputed claims that the split of 55 percent to 45 percent was agreed upon in writing. Mirigian said his matching offer was deliberately simple. It’s a lasting endorsement for Ortiz. Let the rest divide the top however they choose.
Other names that were made public as members only underlined the issue. Sebastian Fundora is tied with a planned defense. Errol Spence Jnr has not fought since the middle of 2023. There was no explanation as to why the best-earning fighter at 154 pounds was at the opening count.
The wider business picture adds to the tension. The announcement of Golden Boy is not clear beyond the next few weeks. There are many shows that are scheduled with no end in sight for a long time. In light of that, the risk of conflict with Ortiz over a financial fight has left many observers confused.
Mirigian’s position remains unchanged. Ortiz wants the fight. His team is open to talk. The phone, he said, did not ring.
Now, the problem is not the passion. The control.