Eimantas Stanionis has never been one to back down from a challenge, but his latest declaration has sent shockwaves through the boxing world. The Lithuanian powerhouse has officially set his sights on Jaron “Boots” Ennis, one of the most feared rising stars in the welterweight division. In a division packed with elite talent, Stanionis believes that defeating Ennis will cement his status as the best welterweight in the world.

The question now is—can he back up his words with action?

The Road to This Potential Super Fight

The welterweight division has long been one of boxing’s most competitive weight classes, featuring legends like Floyd Mayweather, Manny Pacquiao, and Terence Crawford. Now, a new generation is emerging, and both Stanionis and Ennis are at the forefront.

Eimantas Stanionis (14-0, 9 KOs) has steadily built his reputation as a relentless pressure fighter with an iron chin and elite boxing fundamentals.
Jaron Ennis (31-0, 28 KOs) is widely considered the most dangerous young talent in the division, boasting blistering hand speed, knockout power, and a slick, switch-hitting style that has drawn comparisons to past greats.

With Terence Crawford moving up in weight, the welterweight throne is now up for grabs. For Stanionis, defeating Ennis would be his ultimate statement—an undeniable claim to the division’s crown.

Why Stanionis Believes He Can Beat Ennis

Despite Ennis’ reputation as a future superstar, Stanionis is not intimidated. Instead, he sees Ennis as the perfect opponent to prove his greatness.

“Everyone talks about Ennis like he’s unbeatable, but I see weaknesses,” Stanionis stated in a recent interview. “He’s never fought someone like me. I will break him down, round by round.”

Stanionis brings a gritty, relentless style, walking opponents down and forcing them into uncomfortable exchanges. He has shown an incredible ability to absorb punishment and keep moving forward, a quality that could make him Ennis’ toughest test yet.

But can Stanionis’ toughness overcome Ennis’ sheer explosiveness?

The Danger of Facing ‘Boots’ Ennis

Make no mistake—Jaron Ennis is a monster in the ring. His record speaks for itself:

28 knockouts in 31 fights
A 90% knockout rate
Rarely ever losing a round

Ennis has been dismantling opponents with ease, and many believe he is already the best welterweight, even before holding a major world title. His ability to switch stances, create angles, and deliver power from every position makes him a nightmare for anyone in the division.

Stanionis will need to walk through fire if he hopes to defeat Ennis. He must cut off the ring, neutralize the speed, and turn the fight into a war of attrition—something he has excelled at in the past.

What’s at Stake? A Shot at the World Title

Both fighters are in prime position for a major world title shot. Ennis holds the IBF interim title, and Stanionis is the WBA (Regular) Champion, meaning a fight between them could be a de facto unification bout.

More importantly, a victory for either man would put them in line for a megafight against the division’s elite, potentially facing the likes of Errol Spence Jr. or Terence Crawford (if he ever returns to 147).

For Stanionis, this isn’t just about a belt—it’s about legacy.

“Beating Jaron Ennis makes me the best welterweight. No debates. No excuses,” he declared. “I want to fight the best, and he is the best available. Let’s do it.”

The Boxing World Reacts

The possibility of Stanionis vs. Ennis has excited fans and analysts alike. Many believe this could be a Fight of the Year contender, given both fighters’ aggressive styles and willingness to engage.

Teddy Atlas, boxing trainer & analyst: “This fight is pure fireworks. Stanionis is an animal, but Ennis is special. This would be a war.”
Tim Bradley, former world champion: “Stanionis is tough as nails, but I don’t know if he can deal with Boots’ power and movement.”
Oscar De La Hoya, promoter: “This is the fight to make in the welterweight division. Two undefeated warriors, no politics. Just action.”

Will the Fight Happen? Or Will It Slip Away?

The biggest obstacle in making Stanionis vs. Ennis a reality is the usual problem in boxing—promotional politics. Ennis is promoted by Premier Boxing Champions (PBC), while Stanionis is under Matchroom Boxing, creating potential roadblocks in negotiations.

However, both fighters have expressed clear interest in the bout, and with the division wide open, this fight makes too much sense to ignore. If the fight doesn’t happen soon, it could be because of mandatory obligations or purse negotiations rather than a lack of desire from either fighter.

Final Thoughts: A Welterweight War Waiting to Happen

Eimantas Stanionis is ready for war. He believes that defeating Jaron Ennis is his ticket to becoming the undisputed top welterweight. But Ennis is one of the most dangerous fighters in the sport, and beating him will take a career-defining performance. If this fight happens, fans can expect an all-out battle—a brutal clash between two of the most skilled and fearless welterweights in boxing today.

Will Stanionis shock the world? Or will Ennis continue his unstoppable rise? The only way to find out is inside the ring.