Jaron Ennis’ return to Philadelphia was a triumph as the 27-year-old defended his IBF welterweight world title by defeating David Avanesyan in just five rounds.
Ennis received a warm reception at the Wells Fargo Centre as a massive crowd, consisting of thousands, eagerly anticipated witnessing something extraordinary.
Ennis, with an unbeaten record of 32-0 and 29 knockouts, was initially set to fight Cody Crowley. However, due to a medical problem, Crowley had to withdraw, leaving Eddie Hearn, Ennis’s new promoter, with the responsibility of finding a replacement. Avanesyan, now 35 years old, has previously fought notable opponents such as Shane Mosley, Lamont Peterson, Egidijus Kavaliauskas, and Terence Crawford. However, nearing the end of his career, the former WBA welterweight champion found Ennis to be too formidable to handle.
At the start of the match, Avanesyan seemed unsettled by Ennis’ powerful jab breaking through his defense. This suggested that the fight might end quickly. However, being a British resident of Armenian descent, Avanesyan displayed his determination by giving his all, despite stepping into the ring on short notice. It’s worth noting that he had fought in more battles than his American counterpart.
In the early rounds, Avanesyan (on the right) displays a reaction upon being struck by a low blow.
Avanesyan, with only a minute remaining in the first round, took a necessary break after enduring a painful low blow that would have incapacitated most fighters. He took all the time he needed before bravely rejoining the fight.
Ennis started to connect with his shots in the second round, effortlessly landing punches with both hands. His experienced opponent has never been very elusive, making it easier for Ennis to land combinations to the head and body. However, it wasn’t completely one-sided. At times, Ennis became too eager and ended up walking into a few punches, possibly due to his year-long absence from the ring.
Ennis relentlessly hacked at Avanesyan’s body in an attempt to weaken him with powerful blows. In the fourth round, Avanesyan’s nose was bloodied, but his determination to fight remained strong, despite the body shots exposing vulnerabilities that Ennis skillfully exploited. Referee Eric Dali closely monitored Avanesyan’s condition as the round neared its end.
In the fifth round, Avanesyan seemed to be having his strongest performance of the fight as he successfully connected with a powerful right hook and uppercut, capturing Ennis’s attention. However, Ennis swiftly retaliated with a left hand that caused the Armenian to hit the canvas with merely a minute remaining. The onslaught persisted, leading to a conversation between referee Dali, the ringside physician, and Avanesyan’s corner. Ultimately, the decision was made to stop the fight.
Ennis acknowledged feeling slightly off during his post-fight interview but assured that he still managed to complete the job successfully. He admitted that his timing was a bit off, but remained optimistic, stating that everything would turn out fine.
If Terence Crawford manages to defeat WBA super-welterweight champion Israil Madrimov on August 3 in Los Angeles, Eddie Hearn is eager to arrange a match between him and Ennis, the former undisputed welterweight champion.
Ennis expressed his clear desire for the big names, stating, “Without a doubt, that’s what I’m after – Terence Crawford, or any other renowned figure who’s up for a challenge.”
