According to remarks published by BoxingScene, De La Hoya stated, “Since Eddie failed to contact me, I am proceeding with other plans.”
During a distinct video posted later that day, De La Hoya reiterated his stance. He declared that no further postponements or renewed discussions would occur. He explicitly stated that if the communication wasn’t received by Monday’s close, the proposition would be withdrawn and not reconsidered.
This proposition would have allocated the greater portion to Ortiz, who holds the interim WBC junior middleweight championship, with an additional five percent designated for the victor. Ennis, who recently transitioned fully to the 154-pound class following an extensive period competing in the welterweight category, would have entered the bout undefeated.
For Golden Boy, the absence of communication served as a definitive reply. Ortiz has maintained a consistent fight schedule since ascending to the higher weight class and possesses an acknowledged championship. De La Hoya emphasized his disinterest in prolonged delays as discussions stagnate without a conclusion.
Focus is now redirecting towards other possibilities. De La Hoya indicated his intention to pursue discussions concerning Sebastian Fundora and also brought up Errol Spence Jr as a potential contender sometime in the future. These options offer more straightforward paths compared to continuously awaiting a reply that never materialized.
Regarding Ennis, this turn of events eliminates what could have been his most definitive showcase bout in the junior middleweight division. His initial appearance in this weight class earlier this year featured a swift victory over Uisma Lima, a contest that served as an introduction but left more significant inquiries unaddressed.
Activity persists within the remainder of the weight class. Xander Zayas is slated for a match against Abass Baraou, and IBF champion Bakhram Murtazaliev is prepared to defend his title against Josh Kelly.
Any potential call had to arrive promptly. De La Hoya states that it failed to materialize, and consequently, he considers the proposed match-up concluded.
