Bud Crawford Praises Jaron Ennis Amid Rising Rivalry in Welterweight Division

Terance “Bud” Crawford, the unified welterweight champion, expressed admiration for Jaron “Boots” Ennis, stating, “If he surpasses me, I’m going to be rooting for him,” according to a March 2024 interview with BoxingScene. The remark highlights the evolving dynamic between the two elite boxers as Ennis ascends the rankings.

Crawford’s Respect for Ennis

Crawford, 35, who holds the WBO, WBC, and IBF welterweight titles, acknowledged Ennis’s potential during a press conference ahead of his April 2024 defense against Julius Indongo. “Jaron is a special talent,” Crawford said. “He’s got the skills, the heart, and the work ethic. If he keeps improving, he’ll be a dominant force.”

Ennis, 29, has compiled a 26-0 record with 19 knockouts, according to BoxingRef. His recent victories over top contenders like Gabriel Rosado and Maurice Hooker have positioned him as a leading contender for Crawford’s titles. The pair is expected to face off in 2025, pending contractual negotiations.

The Road to the Unified Welterweight Title

Crawford’s statement underscores the generational shift in the 147-pound division. Ennis, a former Olympic silver medalist, has drawn comparisons to legends like Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao for his technical precision and resilience. “Jaron’s style is different from mine, but that’s what makes boxing exciting,” Crawford added.

The WBC and WBO have both recognized Ennis as a mandatory challenger for Crawford’s titles, per WBC Boxing. A potential matchup could determine the next era of the division, with Ennis’s camp emphasizing his “unbeaten record and championship pedigree” in promotional materials.

What’s Next for the Rivalry?

Ennis’s team has yet to announce a date for his next fight, though rumors suggest a late-2024 bout against Eimantas Stanionis. Crawford, meanwhile, is scheduled to defend his titles against Indongo on April 6, 2024, in Las Vegas. The outcome could influence negotiations for a high-profile showdown with Ennis.

Analysts note that Crawford’s public praise for Ennis may be a strategic move to elevate the sport’s profile. “This kind of mutual respect benefits boxing,” said The Punch columnist Marcus Lopez. “It creates narrative tension without the need for manufactured drama.”