Jaron Ennis showcased his formidable skills by defeating Uisma Lima in less than two minutes, securing the WBA Interim super-welterweight title in Philadelphia on October 7, 2023. This victory marks Ennis’s first fight at the super-welterweight level, extending his unbeaten record to an impressive 35-0.
The Philadelphia fighter wasted no time in asserting his dominance. Within the first round, Ennis knocked Lima down twice before concluding the bout with a combination that halted Lima at just 1:58. The decisive victory illustrated Ennis’s potential as a serious contender in the 154-pound division.
Future Showdowns and Ambitions
Following his win, Ennis expressed a strong desire to face fellow contender Vergil Ortiz. “It’s going to happen next,” Ennis stated. He indicated that if Ortiz can overcome Erickson Lubin in their upcoming match next month, a clash between them would be highly anticipated. Ennis emphasized, “I want Vergil Ortiz next,” hinting at the significance of this fight for his career trajectory.
Ennis, a former world champion at welterweight, demonstrated his adaptability and threat level at the 154-pound mark. He remarked, “I just wanted to test my body at 154lbs. I’m belt chasing. This is my division; 154 is mine.” His swift victory against Lima not only solidifies his standing but also positions him for potential stardom should he continue this trajectory.
The 28-year-old Ennis previously unified two welterweight belts in April 2023. His move to super-welterweight represents a strategic step in his career. The fight took place at a venue familiar to him, as he has participated in three of his last four bouts at the arena that also hosts the Philadelphia 76ers and Flyers.
Ennis’s performance drew significant attention, including cheers from notable figures such as Tyrese Maxey, an All-Star guard for the 76ers, who encouraged him from the front row. The excitement in the arena was palpable, as the crowd barely had time to settle before witnessing Ennis’s explosive display against Lima.
Looking Ahead: Potential Matchups
While Ennis has set his sights on Ortiz, he is also open to the prospect of challenging Puerto Rico’s WBO champion Xander Zayas next year at Madison Square Garden. He noted, “I’m trying to be undisputed and collect all these belts,” highlighting his ambition to unify titles in the super-welterweight division.
As Ennis continues to build his legacy in boxing, his recent victory serves as a strong statement of intent. With a focus on high-stakes matchups ahead, fans and analysts alike will be watching closely to see how his career unfolds in the coming months.
