Imagine this: a boxing match so anticipated, it’s dubbed a 'dream fight' by one of the sport’s rising stars. But here’s where it gets controversial—Vergil Ortiz, the undefeated knockout artist, has his eyes set on Errol Spence Jr. over the equally formidable Jaron Ennis. Why? Let’s dive in.
After dismantling Erickson Lubin in just two rounds last Saturday night, Ortiz (24-0, 22 KOs) made it clear who he’s dreaming of facing next. 'If I had to pick, it would be [Errol] Spence,' Ortiz told reporters. 'That’s my dream fight, at AT&T Cowboys Stadium. I don’t care what anyone says about it.' And this is the part most people miss—Ortiz’s ambition isn’t just about the opponent; it’s about the stage and the legacy he wants to build.
Spence, the former unified welterweight champion, has been out of the spotlight since his ninth-round stoppage loss to Terence Crawford in July 2023. At 35, his return remains uncertain, but his presence at Ortiz’s recent fight in Fort Worth, Texas, sparked speculation. Could this be a sign of what’s to come? Ortiz’s manager, Rick Mirigian, certainly thinks so, stating that a matchup with Spence 'makes all the sense in the world.'
But let’s not forget Jaron 'Boots' Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs, 1 NC), the Philadelphia powerhouse who’s been calling out Ortiz for months. Ennis’s first-round demolition of Uisma Lima in October showcased his dominance, and his promoter, Eddie Hearn, has been vocal about making this fight happen. DAZN executives are clearly in Ennis’s corner, but Ortiz seems to have his own agenda.
Here’s the bold question: Is Ortiz’s preference for Spence a strategic move to chase a bigger legacy, or is he simply avoiding the younger, hungrier Ennis? While Ortiz insists, 'Anyone can get it. I just want to fight the best,' his focus on Spence raises eyebrows. Spence’s experience and name recognition could elevate Ortiz’s profile, but Ennis represents a more immediate and perhaps riskier challenge.
For now, Ortiz’s future remains uncertain, with The Ring’s No. 1-ranked 154-pounder taking his time to decide. Whether it’s Spence, Ennis, or another contender, one thing is clear: Ortiz is ready for war. But which path will he choose? What do you think—is Ortiz making the right call, or is he overlooking the obvious threat in Ennis? Let’s debate in the comments!
