Former unified welterweight champion Jaron Ennis has announced that he will make his 154lbs debut on October 11, against Uisma Lima.
Ennis has not boxed since his dazzling victory over Eimantas Stanionis in Atlantic City in April. There, Ennis added the WBA belt to the IBF crown he already owned. In June, Ennis confirmed an imminent move to junior welterweight.
Lima, a 32-year-old based in Porto, Portugal, is 14-1 (10 KOs). Born in Angola, his only loss came to talented Irishman Aaron McKenna on points over 10 rounds in June 2023.
Lima has won four in a row since, with his last two wins coming against Shervantaigh Koopman, who was 15-0, and Sukhdeep Singh Bhatti, who was 19-0.
Ennis, 34-0 (30 KOs), and southpaw Lima will meet at the Wells Fargo Arena in Philadelphia, home of two of Ennis’ last three bouts.
It marks the Philadelphian’s first fight since signing a long-term promotional extension with Matchroom.
“They can say what they want it don’t make me [sic] a difference,” said Ennis in a press release from Matchroom. “These dudes can’t tie my shoes. I’m the best in the world and they know it. I want all the big names and belts – the tour continues.”
Lima, who was among a list of names that included Josh Kelly for consideration for Ennis’ first 154lbs opponent, said: “I am very excited to be taking on the biggest challenge of my life against a legit, world-level fighter in Ennis. I believe in myself. I want to thank my team for everything they have done and on October 11 we will be coming to war. Please don’t take me lightly, Boots, as I am coming to win.”
Promoter Eddie Hearn is excited to see Ennis at the new weight.
“I cannot wait to see Boots at 154lbs,” said Hearn. “Jaron was outstanding in what turned out to be his last fight at 147lbs, but after listening to his body, it’s time to start the journey to two-weight glory, and I cannot wait to see what sort of animal this man will be at his new weight. But October 11 is a real test. Uisma has consistently won fights on hostile territory, and the big-hitting African is coming to Philly to make a name for himself and take those big fights that are there for Boots next.”
Ennis added on his social accounts: “October 11th I’m back in the city at the Wells Fargo Center, 154 IM HERE… New weight same goals THE TOUR CONTINUES! I CANT WAIT. 35-0 31KOs coming soon.”
