Ennis vs. Stanionis: Who Are the Experts Backing?

On April 12, a high-stakes welterweight unification bout will take place between IBF champion Jaron Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs) and WBA titleholder Eimantas Stanionis (15-0, 9 KOs).

With anticipation building, former champion and boxing analyst Paul Malignaggi, along with legendary trainer Teddy Atlas, weighed in on what to expect when the two undefeated fighters meet in Atlantic City, USA.

In his Boxing Scene column, Malignaggi called the bout the biggest in the division since Crawford vs. Spence, and predicted a thrilling contest at the highest level.

“We’re expecting a high-quality fight — if there’s no stoppage, this thing is going the full distance. But no matter how long it lasts, it’ll be an explosive one. Both guys are coming in to win, to shock, to destroy.

Ennis is the favorite, no doubt. But this won’t be the cakewalk some expect. It’s the most important fight of their careers, and it’ll answer the toughest questions about both men,” Malignaggi wrote.

Meanwhile, Teddy Atlas provided a technical breakdown of Stanionis’ style, strengths, and vulnerabilities.

“Stanionis is physically strong, aggressive, and defensively responsible. He presses forward behind the jab, likes to go to the body, and throws that left hook often. He blocks more than slips — sure, sometimes he moves his head, but mostly he relies on a tight, high guard. He wants to become a tank, bulldozing his way forward. And his defense isn’t easy to crack.

But I don’t think Ennis will struggle. I see him controlling the range, making Stanionis pay for every attempt to close the gap — and Stanionis doesn’t win at long range. He’ll have to come forward, but Ennis can punish him with uppercuts, jabs, make him hesitate.

Even on the inside, Ennis can fight. He’s got the hand speed, throws short, precise shots, and mixes in power. That’s dangerous,” said Teddy Atlas.

For full analysis and in-depth stats, check out Ready to Fight detailed breakdown at the provided link.