(Interview by Declan Warrington)
BN: You were perhaps the world’s most sought-after free agent. Why is it Matchroom you chose to sign for?
JE: Right now, I firmly believe that this decision is the best one for me. I am confident that Eddie will fully support me, and I am committed to giving my all, resulting in a strong partnership. Despite numerous competing offers, this opportunity stood out significantly.
I am determined to become the undisputed champion, collect all the championship belts, and establish myself as a prominent figure in the industry. I aspire to become a mega superstar, making it impossible for my rivals to reject any opportunities.
BN: How influential was their relationship with your friend Andy Cruz?
JE: I was impressed by how they handled Andy’s situation. The way they took care of him and treated him was admirable. He speaks highly of them.
BN: What about the extent to which they promote geographically, and you previously telling Boxing News of your desire to fight in Philadelphia, your home city?
JE: It holds great significance for me to mention that I’ll be competing in Philadelphia. It has been quite some time, approximately six years, since my last fight in this city. On that occasion, the event was a massive success, with the venue completely packed. The demand was so high that there was hardly any standing room available. I am eagerly anticipating this upcoming fight as it is something that Philadelphia has been lacking and in dire need of. It will mark a significant moment for the city, being the first major fight in quite a while. This serves as a proper homecoming for me, and I couldn’t be more thrilled.
I believe that in the future, Philadelphia will witness a few significant battles, but my preference is to be the first one. Therefore, that is the only thing that holds importance to me.
BN: It was nine months ago when you impressively fought and stopped Roiman Villa. Why have you since had such a low profile?
JE: I’m currently in the process of figuring things out and making some decisions. Recently, I purchased a house in late 2023 near Philadelphia. It’s great to finally have a place of my own and the extra space is exactly what I needed. It’s been a pleasant experience so far.
BN: Since you last fought the IBF have installed you as their champion…
JE: This is not how I envisioned it at all. Honestly, I would have preferred to earn it from someone else. Unfortunately, I had no say in the matter. They simply promoted me. I may not have a choice, but I will still defend the title and fulfill my responsibilities. Frankly, I couldn’t care less about anyone’s opinions, including those on social media. It doesn’t affect me in the slightest.
BN: Do you consider yourself the champion?
JE: My championship journey began the moment I entered this world.
BN: The IBF stripped Terence Crawford of their title because you were his mandatory challenger but he said that he was committed to a rematch with Errol Spence. How frustrating is it for you to see that rematch not happening?
JE: I was hoping for that fight. It was certainly peculiar, not exactly frustrating though. “I’m clueless about what’s happening.” Boxing is an odd sport, but ultimately, there’s nothing much one can do about it. I won’t bother trying to control it.
BN: Did it make you conclude Crawford didn’t want to fight you?
JE: You mentioned it earlier. That’s exactly what it is.
BN: Can the investment in boxing from Saudi Arabia and its growing influence still lead to the two of you fighting?
JE: It only makes sense if it sparks a major altercation. I’ve always believed that the location doesn’t matter. As long as I’m engaged in a fight, I simply enjoy the thrill of it. You can witness the impact of investment on the sport – it’s undeniable.
Certainly, I am undoubtedly the most formidable contender for Crawford. Initially, I had reservations about his transition to the super middleweight division to potentially face Saul “Canelo” Alvarez. I couldn’t predict how he would manage to jump multiple weight classes. However, I remained unfazed and unaffected by this situation. It’s not exactly an uneven matchup since Canelo began his career at 154 pounds, and he isn’t physically imposing.
BN: Is he the best fighter in the world?
JE: I am.
BN: Cody Crawley is next…
JE: As I sit here, I patiently wait for the moment when I receive the green light. Regardless of the opponent, I acknowledge their skills as a fighter, but my personal interest lies solely in returning to the ring and showcasing my expertise. All I desire is for that fight to materialize.
BN: Not unlike with Crawford and Spence, who do you see becoming your long-term rival?
JE: The fighter I’m referring to is Vergil Ortiz. I believe he has transitioned to the light middleweight division. Despite his move, he intends to remain in this weight class, so I would say it’s still Vergil and me. Rest assured, I will certainly reach the 154-pound weight category in the future.
