The only problem fight fans have with Jaron "Boots" Ennis is that they don't see him enough, but the wait is almost over. The unbeaten IBF welterweight champ returns to action against power-punching challenger David Avanesyan at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia on July 13.
Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) is tipped by many as a future pound-for-pound king. The 27-year-old switch-hitter has wonderful skills, stunning punch power and he's defensively sound. Since winning the title with a shutout decision win over Karen Chukhadzhian, he's halted Roiman Villa in his maiden defense.
WATCH: Jaron "Boots" Ennis vs. David Avanesyan, live on DAZN
Having recently signed with Matchroom Boxing, Boots was originally scheduled to face IBF mandatory challenger Cody Crowley. However, the Australian fighter was pulled out due to a fluid accumulation in his right eye, which paved the way for Avanesyan to step in.
The Sporting News takes a close look at the next challenger for Boots Ennis.
Who is David Avanesyan?
Avanesyan, 35, is a veteran and a hard hitter who has mixed with some solid competition.
Between 2018 and 2022, Avanesyan scored six consecutive knockouts (three in the first round) and developed something of a bogeyman reputation. However, multi-weight world champion and pound-for-pound stalwart Terence Crawford brought him back down to earth courtesy of a shuddering sixth-round knockout.
Ava's best wins have come against a faded Shane Mosley, Kerman Lejarraga and Josh Kelly. He is currently rated No. 14 with the IBF.
"I really respect Ennis and think he could become one of the best," acknowledged Avanesyan in an interview with Boxing Scene. "I promise we will find out just how good he could become on July 13th.
"I'd like to thank Matchroom and my manager Neil Marsh for this great opportunity. I don't need asking twice to have a war with somebody, especially a fighter as highly rated as Jaron Ennis."
David Avanesyan record, stats, bio
- Nationality: Armenian
- Born: August 15, 1988
- Height: 5-8
- Reach: 68 ½ inches
- Total fights: 35
- Record: 30-4-1 with 18 wins via knockout