On Wednesday, unified 154-pound champion Xander Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs) went face-to-face with former unified 147-pound champion Jaron “Boots” Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs) at a press conference in Brooklyn to discuss their upcoming fight on June 27 at Barclays Center(DAZN PPV).
While the 23-year-old Zayas is a unified champion, many believe that this fight could be too soon for the Puerto Rican champion.
However, Zayas, the youngest unified champion in boxing, says this fight is about solidifying his legacy.
“It’s always been about legacy,” Zayas said. “Becoming the youngest world champion at 22 when I did it. Youngest unified world champion. And now fighting one of the best in the world in the division. It’s about legacy. Anybody could have taken the easy route and just get an easy win and that’s it. I want to fight the best. I want to show that I’m the best every time I step into the ring. And that’s what I’m going to do on June 27.”
Matchroom head Eddie Hearn is shocked that Zayas took the fight.
“I’m still in shock, and I give the unbelievable credit that Xander deserves because he is a great fighter,” Hearn said. “He must have a massive set of cojones because what’s about to happen on June 27th is one of the toughest tasks in boxing.”
The 28-year-old Ennis thinks it might be too much, too soon for Zayas.
“I think Xander bit off way more than he can chew,” Ennis said. “Come fight night, he’ll see. I’m going to show everyone that I’m the best in the world.”
Ennis believes he has all the skills to make his opponent’s life a nightmare.
“You can watch my fights, but when you get in the ring, it’s a whole different story,” he said. “I’m faster than you think. I’m stronger, and I have a better IQ, too. He’s going to be in for a long night.”
When asked if the fight with Zayas would end with a knockout, Ennis said this:
“For sure.”
Zayas disagrees.
“I never go out there looking for the knockout,” Zayas said. “But I promise I’m going to rip his heart out. I guarantee you that. He’s going to be uncomfortable. I’m going to show you come June 27.”
Photo: Matchroom Boxing
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