Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis Talks Career, Style, and Next Title Goals

After capturing the super welterweight title and holding two belts, Jaron “Boots” Ennis sat down with Ring Magazine for a candid chat. He reflected on how his upbringing inside a boxing‑oriented family shapes his game and outlined where his priorities lie for the coming fights. The conversation also touched on recent sparring setbacks and a high‑profile remark from Terence Crawford.

Family Influence on His Game

Ennis credits his brothers and father for much of his development. “Both my brothers been around the block, my dad been around the block. They was former fighters as well, so they know, and they’ve been on the highest stages possible so they know what it takes.” He says he trusts their insights because they see qualities he might miss, calling that support “great.”

Describing His Versatile Fighting Style

The fighter describes himself as a “boxer‑puncher” but insists he can dictate the flow of any bout. “I feel like I’m a boxer-puncher but I really do what I want, for real. I can do whatever I want in the ring.” He notes that each fight brings something different: one showcase “dog work,” a knockout performance in another, and a more technique‑heavy approach against Stanionis. “I feel like I’m a variety bag of chips. Whatever you want, you have.”

Dealing With Fight Scheduling Frustration

Ennis voiced annoyance over constant questions about a potential Vergil Ortiz showdown that never materialized. He explains the shifting timeline: “I did my part. I thought the fight was done after he fought Lubin… I started training for that fight in January… then we wind up fighting Zayas.” He adds that he effectively trained five months for Zayas after the opponent swap. His immediate focus, he says, is the belt collection: “Right now my task is belts… I got two belts in this division and my goal is to be undisputed and that’s what I’m going to do. So bring on these next champions.”

Responding to Terence Crawford’s Comments

When asked about Crawford’s jibe that “it’s the Boots’ era,” Ennis kept it light. “Let that man be happily retired. He said what he said and he said it’s the Boots’ era. So let him retire, let him enjoy himself.” He admits the fight with Crawford was always wanted, as were bouts with Errol Spence and other top contenders, but “it didn’t go that way.” He recalls earlier critics labeling him “high risk/low reward,” a narrative he says he carried throughout his career. “Everything happens for a reason, though. Perfect timing.”