According to trainer Robert Garcia, his boxer, Vergil Ortiz Jr., has “a plethora of choices” besides Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis for his next bout, following his second-round TKO victory over Erickson Lubin (27-3, 19 KOs) last Saturday night at the Dickies Arena in Fort Worth, Texas.
Immediately after the contest, Robert Garcia listed these names as potential future opponents for Vergil Jr. (24-0, 22 KOs) to face:
- Errol Spence Jr.
- Jermell Charlo
- Xander Zayas
- Jaron Ennis
Observing Robert Garcia and Vergil Ortiz Jr. both bringing up the names of the inactive 36-year-old Jermell Charlo and 35-year-old Errol Spence, it appeared that these two are the targets, rather than ‘Boots’ Ennis.
Skeptics Suspect Evasion Tactics
Observers speculated that Golden Boy promoter Oscar De La Hoya was employing avoidance rhetoric at the post-fight press conference, stating that Ortiz Jr. holds the “advantage” in negotiations, should they occur. “I intend to confer with Eddie Hearn, and it’s clear we possess the upper hand due to [Ortiz’s] superiority, and determine if we can reach an accord, which I anticipate we will.”
Does that suggest an eagerness to arrange the Ortiz Jr. versus Ennis match? Many perceive that as a standard instance of dodging tactics from a promoter.
“The arrangement could materialize at any moment. We stand prepared for anyone, yet we have numerous alternatives,” trainer Robert Garcia conveyed to the media when queried about whether Vergil Ortiz Jr. will confront Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis next, subsequent to defeating Erickson Lubin in the second round last Saturday night.
“Fundora holds our mandatory position. Thus, we would eagerly pursue that opportunity as well. [Errol] Spence was present, too. [Jermell] Charlo was also in attendance. ‘Boots’ is here too, expressing interest. Therefore, any of these significant contests could transpire. We are equipped for any of them.
Garcia’s Excitement Is Revealing
Of particular interest was the fervor in Robert’s tone when discussing the veteran fighters, Spence and Charlo, both in their mid-30s and absent from competition since 2023. He seemed akin to a child receiving a cherished Christmas gift.
It was apparent to those who viewed Robert’s interview that he is enthusiastic about Vergil Jr. battling either of those individuals.
“I believe Vergil has emerged as the fighter to challenge Xander, although I understand he may have prior commitments. Consequently, there are a multitude of potential fights available. I envision the possibility of five or six contests.
