Jaron Ennis Vs. Uisma Lima – How Does It Play Out?

Jaron Ennis boxes Uisma Lima in a WBA title eliminator on October 11, as we look at how the pair could approach this fight. 

This bout is pivotal for Ennis, who recently vacated his welterweight titles and moved up to the junior middleweight (154-pound) division. His decision to move up came after a dominant run at 147 pounds, which culminated in a unification victory over Eimantas Stanionis back in April. According to Ennis’ team, the change was a necessity; he simply could no longer reach his optimal performance weight at 147 pounds.

With the quest for undisputed status at welterweight now behind him, a win over Lima will immediately position Ennis for a world title shot at 154 pounds. As for Lima, he has racked up four wins on the spin following his sole loss to Aaron McKenna. He enters the fight with a win over Shervantaigh Koopman. 

The Approach

Ennis will aim to prove that his punching power can transfer to the 154-pound division. Ennis is expected to use his switch-hitting ability. By changing between orthodox and southpaw, he will aim to confuse Lima’s defense, finding the perfect angles to land his offense—such as a sharp straight right hand from orthodox or a powerful lead right hook from southpaw. 

Ennis will aim to utilize his superior footwork and jab to maintain distance control. If Lima attempts to pressure, Ennis will use subtle pivots and side-steps to make his opponent fall short, immediately punishing the wasted movement with quick, clean counter-combinations. To neutralize Lima’s size and stamina at the new weight, Ennis should also incorporate a heavy body attack early on.

For Lima, his primary strategy must be to apply relentless pressure and consistently cut off the ring, taking away Ennis’ space and ability to operate from the outside. Lima needs to advance behind a high guard, throwing a high volume of punches—particularly hooks and uppercuts on the inside—to keep Ennis constantly on the defensive. Crucially, Lima must use his strength to his advantage in the clinch. He will face a tough task against Ennis, who has yet to lose.