"It’s Not Us": Virgil Ortiz’s Trainer Blames Ennis’ Team for Fight Collapse

Robert Garcia, the trainer of interim WBC super welterweight champion Virgil Ortiz (22-0, 21 KOs), commented on the situation surrounding the potential fight between his fighter and IBF welterweight champion Jaron Ennis (33-0, 29 KOs).

Garcia stated that Ortiz’s team was ready for the fight, but actions from the opposing side ultimately caused the bout to fall through. He also expressed surprise at Ennis’ decision to change plans despite previous statements about moving to a different weight class.

"We were ready for the fight. Virgil is a true warrior. He never backs down from a challenge. So, when we were told he would fight Boots (Jaron Ennis), we were thrilled. We were excited about that fight. We prepared for it, but in the end, the fight fell through not because of Virgil. It was Boots’ team, Matchroom, or someone else who pulled out. It wasn’t us.

I really don’t know what happened. I don’t understand why he decided not to take the fight, especially since he mentioned after his last bout that he would move up to another weight class. We were ready, but it seems he decided to back out," said Garcia.

In August, Ortiz defeated Serhii Bohachuk by majority decision. Jaron Ennis’ next fight is scheduled against Israil Madrimov on February 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Ennis last fought in November, earning a unanimous decision victory over Karen Chukhadzhian. His next bout will take place on April 12 in Atlantic City, USA, where he’ll face WBA champion Eimantas Stanionis in a title unification clash.