Xander Zayas has shared his thoughts on the true ability of Jaron Ennis following their epic battle on Saturday.
Zayas lost his WBA and WBO super-welterweight titles to ‘Boots’ via seventh round TKO at the Barclays Center in New York, but it was a dramatic back and forth clash that will live long in the memory of many boxing fans.
Ennis recorded several knockdowns against Zayas throughout the fight, but ‘Boots’ also had to undergo some worrying moments of his own, particularly in round three when the Puerto Rican landed some huge shots.
In the end though the class of Ennis shone through, and speaking in his post-fight interview, Zayas admitted he was extremely impressed with his rival’s performance.
“Congratulations to Boots. He did what he needed to do and he deserved the victory tonight. I knew I had one of the best in the game in front of me and it’s part of the business.
“I felt like I had him hurt [in round three] and felt like I landed some big shots, but he’s a great champion and he adjusted and stayed composed and did what he needed to do.
“He was quick and was able to cut the ring today and he did his job. All props to him. Credit to him. There’s nothing I can do. I’ll just go back to the drawing board and get better.
“He won like the champion he is and I lost like the gentleman that I am and I’ve got to accept it. Respect to Boots. Take over the 154 division. You deserve everything.”
Ennis may now look to go in search of the remaining world title belts at super-welterweight in a bid to become undisputed champion.