Former Undisputed Champ Offers to Fight Jaron Ennis or Vergil Ortiz

Jermell Charlo steps up to save potential super-welterweight showdown

Apr. 10, 2026 at 8:08pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a boxing match between two fighters, with their forms broken down into sharp, geometric shapes and planes of color, creating a dynamic and abstract visual representation of the sport.Charlo's bold offer to fight either Ennis or Ortiz could be the key to unlocking this highly anticipated boxing showdown.Chicago Today

The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation for a potential showdown between Jaron Ennis and Vergil Ortiz, but negotiations have hit a snag. Amidst the stalemate, former undisputed champion Jermell Charlo has stepped forward, ready to take on either boxer to ensure the fight happens.

Why it matters

This offer from Charlo could be the key to unlocking the highly anticipated Ennis vs. Ortiz match-up, which has become one of the most sought-after fights in the sport. Charlo's intervention could help resolve the ongoing dispute between the two camps and bring the fight to fruition for boxing fans.

The details

Despite neither Ennis nor Ortiz holding a world title, their super-welterweight match-up has become a must-see event. However, negotiations have been challenging, with both teams threatening to seek alternative opponents if a deal isn't reached soon. Ortiz has even filed a lawsuit against his promotional firm, Golden Boy Promotions, led by Oscar De La Hoya, over the dispute.

  • Ennis and Ortiz have an April 2026 deadline to finalize the fight.
  • Charlo hasn't fought since his unsuccessful challenge for Canelo Alvarez's undisputed super-middleweight title in September 2023.

The players

Jaron Ennis

A rising star in the super-welterweight division, known for his impressive skills and undefeated record.

Vergil Ortiz

A highly touted prospect who has been embroiled in a legal dispute with his promotional firm, Golden Boy Promotions.

Jermell Charlo

The former undisputed super-welterweight champion, who is eager to return to the ring in 2026 and has offered to fight either Ennis or Ortiz to save the potential match-up.

Oscar De La Hoya

The founder and chairman of Golden Boy Promotions, which represents Vergil Ortiz.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Boxing is not a team sport. The next move is always the best move.”

— Jermell Charlo

What’s next

Charlo's offer could be the catalyst to get the Ennis vs. Ortiz fight back on track, but the ongoing legal dispute between Ortiz and Golden Boy Promotions will need to be resolved as well.

The takeaway

This situation highlights the complexities and challenges that can arise in high-profile boxing matchups, even when the fight itself is highly anticipated by fans. Charlo's willingness to step in and offer to face either Ennis or Ortiz could be the solution needed to make this fight a reality.