Jaron Ennis remains on track to return later this year, having established himself as a must-see attraction following his seventh-round stoppage of Xander Zayas.
The Philadelphian dethroned his Puerto Rican rival in June, becoming a two-division unified champion by claiming the WBO and WBA world super-welterweight titles.
Since then, Ennis has expressed his desire to become the undisputed king at 154lbs, while others would prefer to see him face Vergil Ortiz Jr in a long-awaited grudge match.
Top of Boots’ priority list, however, is a three-belt unification match, with WBC champion Sebastian Fundora having been named as an appealing opponent.
‘The Towering Inferno’ must first take care of mandatory challenger Ermal Hadribeaj on October 17 and, if he proves successful, an Ennis clash could become realistic in 2027.
Until then, though, Boots is likely to face IBF champion Josh Kelly, who comes off a hard-fought unanimous decision victory over Caoimhin Agyarko in July.
Prior to that, ‘Pretty Boy’ dethroned formidable puncher Bakhram Murtazaliev in January, proving to be one of the most skilled operators at 154lbs.
Kelly therefore represents a worthy opponent for Ennis and, according to veteran journalist Dan Rafael, a venue has already been selected for their expected encounter.
“Per sources involved, the Boots Ennis-Josh Kelly 154[lb] unification fight Matchroom is putting together will take place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta though exact date is not set (late November/December).”
NEWS: Per sources involved, the Boots Ennis-Josh Kelly 154 unification fight Matchroom is putting together will take place at State Farm Arena in Atlanta though exact date is not set (late November/December). #boxing
— Dan Rafael (@DanRafael1) September 10, 2026
With Kelly suffering a horrendous cut over the bridge of his nose against Agyarko, many were doubtful that he would be cleared to return later this year.
It would now seem that the British 32-year-old is set to face Boots, though, with Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn keen to stage their fight in the US.
