Jaron Ennis W12 Karen Chukhadzhian... Fighting in his hometown of Philadelphia, Jaron "Boots" Ennis (33-0) retained his IBF welterweight championship, defeating an improved Karen Chukhadzhian (24-3) in a rematch from their 2023 encounter. Ennis won by scores of 119-107 (a bad scorecard), 117-109 and 116-110, but he really had to work hard for it. Chukhadzhian was much more aggressive and competitive this time around, showing the guts and courage that has come to be the hallmark of Ukrainian boxers. Although the outcome was not in doubt, Ennis was clearly frustrated with his inability to finish off the challenger. Ennis knocked Chukhadzhian down in round five, and a tiring Chukhadzhian had a point deducted in round ten for holding. Chukhadzhian had a strong final two rounds, landing several clean and hard shots on Ennis.

 

In January 2023, Ennis cruised to a unanimous decision over Chukhadzhian to earn the vacant IBF interim welterweight title. Ennis was extended to the full twelve-round distance for the first time in his career, but prevailed handily by three score of 120-108. Chukhadzhian has won three straight to regain IBF mandatory contender status. The last two wins-- against Harry Scarff and Pietro Rosetti-- were quality wins.