Coach Derek Ennis says the situation is simple. Jaron Ennis is ready to fight Vergil Ortiz Jr. The contract has already been signed from their side. What happens depends on Ortiz’s signing with his group.
Talk to FighthypeEnnis said the wait would not be long. “If they sign the contract, we have already signed the contract, that’s all we’re waiting for, but we won’t wait long,” he said. He followed that up by emphasizing the need to stay strong. “It’s not too long because we have to keep moving forward.”
That situation reflects where Ennis is in his career. At 28, he has already spent a long time waiting for fights to show up. Another delay would be useless for his position at junior middleweight, especially if he gets awards and opportunities elsewhere. His camp is showing patience, but only to a point.
Ortiz holds the WBC interim title, but his own future has yet to be determined. He is trying to separate himself from Golden Boy Promotions, and the uncertainty slowed the negotiations. Even if all the fighters want the fight, the business side has to be used. Currently, no.
Ennis’ team has not publicly announced a potential opponent if the Ortiz fight is canceled. However, other ways are obvious. A shot at IBF champion Bakhram Murtazaliev would put Ennis right in a fight. A meeting with the champion of the WBC Sebastian Fundora will bring greatness and visibility. A fight against Xander Zayas the WBO would be against a fighter who is on the rise. Either way keeps Ennis strong and relevant in the group.
Introducing Eddie Hearn recommended the war is still alive, even if it does not move quickly. “I hope the fight can be done, but we will see,” said Hearn. “It’s not dead.”
For now, the decision rests with Ortiz and his side. Ennis has done what he has to do. If the signature doesn’t come soon, the partition will proceed without it, and it will be more like a missed opportunity than a planned delay.
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Last updated on 01/23/2026