Jaron Ennis successfully defended his IBF welterweight title with an impressive fifth-round TKO victory over David Avanesyan in front of a crowd of over 14,000 at Philadelphia's Wells Fargo Center. Ennis, ranked as the No. 3 welterweight by ESPN, showcased his skills in his hometown for the first time since 2018.
The 26-year-old Ennis delivered a decisive blow in the fifth round, sending Avanesyan to the canvas with a well-timed counter right hand. Avanesyan, unable to continue, retired on his stool at the end of the round.
Ennis, who had been out of action for a year, expressed some self-criticism about his performance, stating, 'I felt off a little bit... My timing was a little off.' He then called out for a fight with top welterweight Terence Crawford.
Ennis, with a record of 32-0 and 28 knockouts, dominated the fight with his aggressive combinations, overwhelming Avanesyan both to the head and body. The punch stats reflected Ennis' dominance, outlanding Avanesyan 152 to 53, with a 46% to 53% connect rate.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn praised Ennis, labeling him as the 'future of boxing' and expressing confidence in his ability to defeat any opponent. Hearn hinted at potential unification fights for Ennis before a potential move up to the 154-pound division.
Ennis was originally scheduled to face Cody Crowley but had to withdraw due to eye surgery. Avanesyan, stepping in as a late replacement, struggled to keep up with Ennis' pace and power throughout the bout.
Avanesyan, with a record of 30-5-1 and 18 knockouts, was unable to mount a significant challenge against Ennis. The 35-year-old Russian, previously ranked No. 8 by ESPN at 147 pounds, had his last fight against Crawford end in a knockout loss.
Ennis' dominant performance solidified his status as a rising star in the welterweight division, with Hearn already planning his next fight for October or November. The boxing world eagerly anticipates Ennis' future matchups as he continues his quest for greatness in the sport.
