Strategic Moves in Boxing: Alalshikh and Hearn Plot Ennis vs. Crawford

Saudi Influence Grows in Global Boxing

In the intricate ballet of boxing promotions, the influence of Saudi Arabian sports figures like Turki Alalshikh on the global stage is becoming increasingly apparent. Alalshikh, a noted powerbroker within the sport, has thrown his considerable weight behind a proposal for a high-stakes bout between American boxing sensation Jaron Ennis and the seasoned Terence Crawford at junior middleweight.

Ennis Impresses, Sparks Interest

Fresh from a victorious fight in his Philadelphia hometown, Jaron Ennis has quickly ascended the ranks to become a key figure in boxing’s future narratives. His recent win over David Avanesyan not only marked his first fight under Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing but also captured Alalshikh’s attention, prompting a call for a matchup with Crawford. Alalshikh expressed his enthusiasm on social media, stating, “I just reached out to boxer Jaron Ennis and Eddie Hearn to congratulate him on his win and I’d love to see Ennis in fight with Crawford at weight 154 soon.”

Hearn’s Calculated Approach to a Crawford Matchup

While the prospect of a Crawford vs. Ennis fight excites fans and pundits alike, Eddie Hearn has tempered expectations, suggesting that such a matchup is likely to materialize in 2025. He noted that Ennis’ move to the 154-pound category is imminent but emphasized the importance of timing: “He is going to move to 54 at some point,” Hearn stated. “But you don’t want to really go before you have taken care of business.”

In discussions about potential venues and timings, Hearn revealed that a significant fight could align with other major events, possibly in Saudi Arabia or back in the United States, suggesting, “maybe if you want we will go co-main event on [Dmitrii] Bivol-[Artur] Beterbiev in October out there [Saudi Arabia], or we could come back here [Philadelphia].”

Future Fights and Broader Implications

The boxing landscape in the near future holds several intriguing possibilities. With figures like Saul “Canelo” Alvarez planning interim bouts and Crawford gearing up for a significant title fight, the strategic positioning of fighters like Ennis becomes crucial. As the Saudis continue to invest and express interest in premier boxing events, the potential for a Crawford vs. Ennis fight remains a tantalizing prospect that could reshape the sport’s top echelons.