In the world of professional boxing, few names carry the same weight as Saul “Canelo” Alvarez and Terence “Bud” Crawford. But now, promoter Eddie Hearn has stirred the pot by suggesting that a fight between Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Crawford would be far more compelling than the highly anticipated Crawford vs. Canelo showdown rumored for September.

While Canelo Alvarez remains a financial juggernaut—reportedly commanding purses upward of $200 million—criticism has increasingly surrounded the entertainment value of his recent bouts. As such, boxing insiders and fans alike are beginning to wonder if a matchup between Crawford and Jaron Ennis, one of the most explosive young talents in the sport, could offer a more competitive and thrilling experience inside the ring.

Canelo’s Economic Might vs. Declining Spectacle

There’s no denying Canelo Alvarez’s draw in terms of ticket sales and pay-per-view numbers. The Mexican superstar has built a career that not only spans multiple weight classes but also turns every bout into a financial spectacle. His last fight reportedly approached a staggering $200 million in total purse revenue, an amount that few, if any, current fighters can match.

However, fans and pundits have expressed disappointment in the entertainment factor of recent Canelo fights. His tactical, methodical style—while effective—has drawn criticism for lacking the explosive edge and unpredictability that fans crave. In contrast, a matchup with Terence Crawford, who boasts both technical mastery and raw aggression, seems like a more thrilling prospect. Still, the concern is that Canelo’s physical size at 168 pounds could overshadow Crawford’s talents, given the weight difference.

Eddie Hearn Shifts the Conversation to Jaron Ennis

In a recent interview, Matchroom Boxing CEO Eddie Hearn weighed in on the potential blockbuster fights awaiting Crawford. While acknowledging the historical significance and marketability of a Crawford vs. Canelo bout, Hearn offered a surprising alternative:

“The fight Boots really wants is with Terence Crawford. Honestly, that would be incredible. If you want a legacy-defining fight, that’s the one.”

According to Hearn, Jaron Ennis represents the type of opponent who could bring out the very best in Crawford. The matchup would pit the experienced, undefeated pound-for-pound king against a hungry, dangerous young lion who is quickly ascending through the ranks.

Who Is Jaron “Boots” Ennis?

Born on June 26, 1997, in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Jaron Ennis hails from a boxing family. His father, Derrick “Bozy” Ennis, was a professional fighter, and his brothers Derek “Pooh” Ennis and Farah Ennis also competed in the sport.

But “Boots” is carving out his own legacy. Known for his blistering speed, fluid footwork, and knockout power, Ennis has amassed a nearly flawless professional record. His recent victory over Eimantas Stanionis only added to his momentum, and he’s now set to move up to the 154-pound division.

Ennis has openly called out Terence Crawford, stating that he wants to fight the best and sees Crawford as the benchmark. Yet despite his rising star, Ennis lacks the global recognition that comes with names like Canelo Alvarez or Errol Spence Jr., which limits the financial appeal of such a matchup—at least for now.

The Timing Problem: Crawford’s Age and Future Plans

One of the biggest hurdles standing in the way of Crawford vs. Ennis is time. Crawford is nearing 38 years old and is reportedly focused on super middleweight challenges, specifically the potential clash with Canelo Alvarez.

Hearn himself expressed doubt about whether the Ennis fight would materialize:

“Probably not,” he admitted. “Crawford’s looking at the final chapters of his career. He’s going for big legacy fights and money fights. Boots may have to wait.”

That’s a sobering reality for Ennis, who may not get the Crawford fight he craves before “Bud” retires or fully commits to the 168-pound class. Still, boxing is unpredictable, and public demand has changed the course of careers before.

What Makes Ennis vs. Crawford Special?

So why are people so intrigued by this hypothetical bout? The answer lies in style, skill, and suspense.

Crawford is an elite switch-hitter, cerebral and ruthless once he smells blood.

Ennis, while younger and less experienced, mirrors many of Crawford’s attributes: versatility, composure, and sheer power.

It’s the classic “young lion vs. wise king” narrative, but with the twist that both fighters are supremely technical and offensively gifted. Many fans feel this fight would be more evenly matched than Crawford vs. Canelo, where the weight disparity could limit competitiveness.

A New Legacy Fight?

Some boxing experts are already calling Ennis vs. Crawford a potential successor to Mayweather vs. Pacquiao or Crawford vs. Spence in terms of stylistic intrigue and legacy implications.

While Crawford is already a two-division undisputed champion, defeating a dangerous and unbeaten Ennis at 154 would further cement his legacy as one of the all-time greats. For Ennis, beating Crawford would instantly catapult him into superstardom, making him a new face of boxing.

Hearn’s comments aren’t just idle talk; they tap into a larger narrative forming in the sport—that the most meaningful fights aren’t always the most lucrative, but they are the ones that define careers.

Where Does Virgil Ortiz Jr. Fit In?

Interestingly, Virgil Ortiz Jr. could become the wild card in this equation. If Ennis can secure and win a bout against Ortiz, he would significantly raise his global profile and bargaining power.

Ortiz, another undefeated American contender, carries more name recognition and is ranked among the top in the 147 and 154 divisions. A win over him could act as the perfect audition for an eventual bout with Crawford—or even make Ennis the next major pay-per-view star in his own right.

Boxing’s Changing Landscape

The sport of boxing is evolving. Fighters are no longer protected behind long promotional walls or kept apart due to complicated broadcast deals. Fans demand the best to fight the best, and promotional outfits are increasingly under pressure to deliver.

Hearn’s public comments could be a strategic nudge to let networks and promoters know that the boxing world is ready—and eager—for a new mega-fight that doesn’t involve the usual suspects.

The Financial Dilemma

Still, money talks. While Ennis vs. Crawford may be more appealing from a pure boxing standpoint, it doesn’t yet match the global financial allure of a Canelo matchup.

That’s why Hearn’s remarks, while bold, are ultimately rooted in boxing logic more than economics. Until Ennis becomes a global draw, Crawford may continue to pursue more lucrative, albeit less challenging, fights—especially with retirement possibly looming.

Crawford’s Own Thoughts

Though Crawford hasn’t officially responded to Hearn’s suggestion, his past interviews suggest a willingness to fight anyone—as long as the stakes are high.

“If it makes sense, I’m in. But don’t come to me with no lowball. I’ve earned my spot.”

Those words echo the predicament facing any rising star: to earn a seat at the table, you must first build your value. That’s where fights with names like Ortiz, Charlo, or even Tim Tszyu could give Ennis the platform he needs.

Conclusion: A Fight Fans Deserve?

Whether or not it ever happens, the idea of Jaron Ennis vs. Terence Crawford is now part of the boxing conversation—and it’s not going away. Hearn’s comments have opened the door for speculation, debate, and, perhaps, negotiation.

In a world where money often trumps merit, fans can only hope that boxing takes a rare detour and gives them a bout based on skill, potential, and legacy—not just dollar signs.

If it happens, it could be a fight that defines a generation.