Jaron Ennis, the unified WBO and WBA super-welterweight champion, is targeting a unification bout with WBC titleholder Sebastian Fundora. Now a two-division champion, Ennis believes a victory over the uniquely tall Fundora would cement his status atop the 154-pound division.
Ennis is coming off a significant victory last month that earned him two major world titles. Instead of taking a routine defense, he has immediately set his sights on the most difficult stylistic challenge available: Fundora, the 6-foot-6-inch WBC champion. The potential 8-inch height difference does not concern Ennis, who is focused on proving his skills are on another level. He views the fight as a necessary step to showcase his unique abilities.
His intentions are clear. In a direct challenge to Fundora, Ennis stated his desire for the fight and his confidence in the outcome. “I want him [Fundora]. I want him. I don’t care [that he’s 6ft 6in]. Bring him on, you’re going to see I’m really different. These guys don’t do what I do. Y’all [will] see as I keep going up and keep fighting these different guys, I’m going to keep getting better and better.”
This call-out reflects the Philadelphia fighter’s belief that his technical skills and adaptability can overcome any physical disadvantages presented by an opponent. A fight with Fundora would require a specific game plan focused on closing distance and negating the champion’s reach.
However, the path to that unification is not straightforward. Fundora is scheduled to defend his world title against mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj later this year. An alternative route for Ennis involves IBF champion Josh Kelly, who also has an obligation to fulfill. Kelly must first defend his title against unbeaten contender Caoimhin Agyarko on July 25. The results of these mandatory defenses will determine the immediate options for Ennis, who previously saw a potential fight with Vergil Ortiz Jr. fall apart due to promotional disputes.
