Eddie Hearn Eyes Jaron Ennis vs. Vergil Ortiz for Early 2026

Ennis will face little-known but rugged Uisma Lima later this year. While Ortiz is set to meet veteran contender Erickson Lubin. Though Ennis’ opponent drew criticism from fans and media. Hearn defended the matchmaking, claiming Lima is “just as good. Just as tough as Erickson Lubin” despite having far less name recognition. Lima, 14–1 (10 KOs), dropped a wide decision to Aaron McKenna in 2023, while Lubin is known for his memorable 2022 war against Sebastian Fundora.

Ortiz enters his fight on the back of a significant win over Israil Madrimov. But Hearn was quick to cast doubt on the performance. He speculated Madrimov wasn’t fully recovered from a chest infection and noted the bout was closer than many realized.

“Vergil won fair and square, but Madrimov’s style is difficult for anyone. We saw that against Crawford,” Hearn said.

A Clash of Rising Stars

Despite his criticism, Hearn praised Ortiz as an elite fighter but one he feels is perfectly suited for Ennis.

“Vergil Ortiz is a very good fighter. I just truly believe that his style is tailor-made for Jaron Ennis. It’s not an easy fight, but it’s a great fight, and I believe this is the fight that shows everybody that Boots is a top pound-for-pound star.”

Ennis (32–0, 28 KOs) has already unified two welterweight titles with a dominant win over Eimantas Stanionis, solidifying himself as lineal champion at 147 pounds. Yet his career momentum has been questioned, as he has yet to land a signature super fight. Hearn, who signed Ennis with ambitions of guiding him to three division undisputed glory, has faced criticism for slow matchmaking.

Timeline for 2026

Hearn’s message is clear: He wants Ennis ringside if Ortiz beats Lubin, setting up the fight announcement for early next year.

“Let’s make sure that by the time Vergil Ortiz wins, we’re in the ring with him, announcing that fight,” Hearn said.

If it happens, an Ennis-Ortiz clash would pit two of the most dangerous young stars in the sport against each other both undefeated, both powerful, and both looking to break into boxing’s pound-for-pound elite.