Teddy Atlas Questions Heavy Favourite Standing For Jaron Ennis Against Xander Zayas

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“They’re basing that on what Ennis is supposed to be,” Atlas mentioned on his YouTube channel. “Because he hasn’t really been tested yet.”
Atlas famous that Ennis has appeared spectacular all through his profession however questioned whether or not his file justifies being practically a 5-1 favourite over one other unbeaten fighter.
“You can’t say that because, look who he beat, he beat this guy, he beat that guy. No, you can’t say that because they’re not there,” Atlas mentioned.

Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs) was elevated to IBF welterweight champion in 2023 and later unified the division earlier than transferring as much as 154 kilos. He made his junior middleweight debut with a first-round knockout of Uisma Lima. Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs), unified titles with a victory over WBA champion Abass Baraou final January and will probably be making the primary protection of his belts towards Ennis.
Rather than dismissing Zayas’ possibilities, Atlas described the unbeaten Puerto Rican as a professional risk.
“I think Zayas is a live dog,” Atlas mentioned. “You’re going to give me that much with an undefeated kid with a good amateur pedigree? I got to think about it.”
Atlas believes Ennis holds benefits in expertise, accuracy, and punching energy, however mentioned Zayas’ measurement, motion, and jab may create issues if he is ready to management vary and hold the battle on the surface.
For Atlas, the battle will reply a query that has adopted Ennis all through his rise within the sport.

“Is he our guy?” Atlas mentioned. “This is going to verify that.”
Atlas’ skepticism facilities on one situation: Ennis’ lack of defining wins. Against an undefeated champion in Zayas, he’ll lastly get the chance so as to add the kind of identify to his resume that critics say has been lacking.

Dan Ambrose is a boxing journalist at Boxing News 24, acknowledged for his direct evaluation and intensive protection of the worldwide battle panorama. His reporting focuses on main bouts, divisional developments, and the game’s most mentioned storylines.