Jaron Ennis will make his first defense of the IBF welterweight title against David Avanesyan on July 13 at the Wells Fargo Center in Philadelphia, his hometown. Matchroom Boxing announced the matchup on Tuesday.
The Challengers
Avanesyan (30-4-1, 18 KOs) steps in as a replacement for Cody Crowley, the mandatory challenger from Canada, who had to withdraw after failing a pre-fight medical exam. The 35-year-old Avanesyan, of Armenian descent and based in the UK, is ranked No. 14 by the IBF at 147 pounds. This will be his second attempt at a world title, following a sixth-round knockout loss to Terence Crawford for the WBO welterweight title in 2022. Since then, he has only fought once, stopping journeyman Serge Ambomo in four rounds in December.
Avanesyan’s notable victories include two stoppage wins over Kerman Lejarraga, a sixth-round stoppage of 2016 British Olympian Josh Kelly, and a unanimous decision win over the legendary Shane Mosley in 2016.
Ennis’ Perspective
Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs), rated No. 2 at 147 pounds by The Ring, expressed enthusiasm about the new opponent. “Now that Crowley is officially not my opponent, I actually like Avanesyan as a better opponent,” Ennis stated. “He will put up a better fight which will be what I want. July 13, don’t miss this beautiful, outstanding performance!”
Avanesyan’s Determination
Avanesyan accepted the fight without hesitation, acknowledging Ennis’ skills and potential. “Jaron Ennis is a world-class boxer who I respect highly and is a potential huge star, and on July 13, we will find out if he is the real deal,” Avanesyan said. “I promise all fans I will give everything to win this world title. This is my last world title chance, and I have to take it. I do respect Ennis and his career as he has been perfect, but he has what I want and need.”
Ennis’ Return to Hometown
This bout marks Ennis’ first fight in Philadelphia since 2018, when he knocked out Raymond Serrano in two rounds. It will also be his first fight in over a year, following his ten-round knockout victory over Roiman Villa in July 2023.
The Undercard
The event will feature an exciting undercard, including:
- Jalil Hackett (8-0, 7 KOs) vs. Peter Dobson (16-1, 9 KOs) in a ten-round welterweight bout.
- Skye Nicolson (10-0, 1 KO) defending her WBC featherweight title against Dyana Vargas (18-1, 12 KOs).
- Khalil Coe (8-0-1, 6 KOs) vs. Manuel Gallegos in a ten-round light heavyweight bout.
- Henry Lebron (19-0, 10 KOs) vs. Christopher Diaz (28-4, 18 KOs).
Conclusion
The July 13 event at the Wells Fargo Center promises to be a thrilling night of boxing, with Jaron Ennis defending his IBF welterweight title against the determined David Avanesyan, alongside a strong supporting lineup of bouts. Fans can expect a night of high-stakes action and potential upsets.