How Did Jaron Ennis Become Welterweight Champion Without Fighting Terence Crawford?

With a stunning victory against Errol Spence Jr. in July this year, Terence Crawford, who was the WBO title holder before the match, became the undisputed welterweight champion as he won the remaining three titles. Following this match, while fans praised Crawford’s skills, several people urged Spence Jr. to hang his gloves given the punishment he took. However, Spence Jr. exercised the rematch clause their contract contained.

At this, while Spence Jr. and Crawford prepared for a second battle, the former IBF interim welterweight title holder became the IBF welterweight champion without fighting ‘Bud’. Undoubtedly, the news shocked boxing fans around the world. However, here is what actually happened.

Failing to negotiate with Jaron Ennis, Terence Crawford is stripped of IBF welterweight title

As per the updates, after the win against Spence Jr., it was mandatory that Crawford faced Jaron Ennis. In this regard, the IBF had even written to the TBC Promotions and formally demanded Crawford begin negotiations with Ennis. According to the IBF, the negotiation had to be done by September 24. However, as Spence Jr. exercised the rematch clause, bound by a contract, ‘Bud’ failed to negotiate with the then interim champion.

As a spokesperson revealed, “On August 25, the IBF sent a letter to TBC Promotions directing Terence Crawford to begin negotiations with interim Champion Jaron Ennis. Negotiations were to be concluded by September 24.” However, on September 22, Harrison Whitman, Crawford’s representative informed the IBF that due to “an immediate rematch provision,” Crawford was “unable to engage in negotiations with Jaron Ennis.”

But, the IBF is against a clause interfering with the mandatory title defense. Hence, the organization stripped Crawford of his IBF welterweight title. As a result, Ennis is now the new IBF welterweight champion although he did not face ‘Bud.’

What shall Crawford do to get back the IBF title?

Well, now that the title is gone, there is only one option left for the proud father, Crawford. After the rematch with ‘The Truth,’ Crawford must try and strike a deal with Ennis. With a victory over the 26-year-old, Crawford can again become the undisputed champion. However, Ennis has not lost a single fight since his pro debut in 2016. Hence, it is very likely that he will give ‘Bud’ a run for his money.

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Besides being younger, Ennis has better height and reach than Crawford. Certainly, Crawford won’t find Ennis as easy as certain fans would like to think. Anyway, with that said, what do you think of Crawford losing the IBF title? Would you like ‘Bud’ to face Ennis? Share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

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