Jaron "Boots" Ennis became a two-division world champion by stopping Xander Zayas in the seventh round on Saturday night at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
The undefeated contender dropped Zayas in the opening round and again in the fifth, setting the stage for a final knockdown in round seven that prompted Zayas's corner to wave off the fight.
Ennis, now 36-0 with 32 knockouts, added the WBA and WBO super welterweight titles to his collection.
Ennis Reflects on Patience and Power
"I knew he would come forward, and we were ready for it," Ennis said. "I just took my time, stayed patient, and listened to my corner."
The Philadelphia native admitted to a brief lapse in the third round when Zayas landed significant counters, calling it "being lazy."
Despite that, Ennis praised his opponent's durability and willingness to take the fight. "He's a grown man.
He's durable. He's a big guy.
...
He didn't have to take this fight, but he wanted to test himself against one of the best, and I commend him on that."
Zayas Accepts Defeat with Grace
Zayas, now 23-1, suffered his first professional loss but remained upbeat. "It was an amazing night.
I showed tonight that if you dream big, sometimes you come up short, but it's part of the journey.
Congratulations to Boots, he did what he needed to do."
The Puerto Rican fighter explained how the early knockdown affected his movement.
"He hurt me in the first round and my legs went away for a couple of rounds. Then I hurt him, but he got me again.
You learn and you come back and get better."
Zayas plans to take time off with his family before deciding his next move, which could include moving up in weight.
"He won as the champion he is and I lost like the gentleman I am," Zayas said. "Respect to Boots, take over the 154 division.
You deserve everything."
Ennis Calls for Unification or Ortiz
When asked about his future, Ennis made it clear he wants the biggest fights. "Give me Vergil, or bring on them belts, it doesn't matter who it is.
I'm taking over this division. This weight division is mine."
Promoter Eddie Hearn mentioned IBF titleholder Josh Kelly as a potential opponent after Kelly's July 25 bout, and discussions have taken place with PBC regarding WBC champion Sebastian Fundora to make Ennis the undisputed champion at 154 pounds.
