In a fiery statement that’s ignited fresh controversy in the boxing world, Ryan Garcia has set his sights on rising star Jaron “Boots” Ennis—declaring that the undefeated welterweight is not worthy of pound-for-pound recognition. The bold claim has left fans and boxing pundits debating furiously online, with some applauding Garcia’s candor and others accusing him of stirring the pot to stay relevant.

“He’s Good, But Not Pound-for-Pound”

During an Instagram Live session earlier this week, Garcia was asked by a fan whether he considered Jaron Ennis a top-tier pound-for-pound fighter. The 25-year-old star didn’t hold back.

“Look, he’s talented, no doubt,” Garcia said. “But let’s not act like he’s fought real killers yet. He’s not a pound-for-pound guy. He’s good—real good—but he still has to prove it.”

Garcia, who recently returned to the win column with a knockout victory over Oscar Duarte, seems to be reestablishing himself in the sport after his lone loss to Gervonta “Tank” Davis in 2023. With his confidence restored, he appears ready to speak his mind—and Jaron Ennis has landed squarely in his crosshairs.

Ennis’ Rising Stock

Jaron Ennis, 26, boasts an undefeated record (31-0, 28 KOs) and has been heralded as one of the most exciting and technically gifted fighters in the welterweight division. His dominant win over Roiman Villa last year only fueled the hype, with many ranking him just behind established stars like Terence Crawford and Errol Spence Jr.

Ennis has yet to land a marquee bout against a big-name opponent, but boxing insiders believe it’s only a matter of time before he headlines a major pay-per-view. Some even suggest he could soon inherit the welterweight throne.

So why the shade from Garcia?

A Strategic Call-Out?

Some analysts believe Garcia’s comments may be more strategic than emotional. With the lightweight and welterweight scenes heating up—and with fighters like Devin Haney, Shakur Stevenson, and Gervonta Davis all making headlines—Garcia may be looking to stir interest in a potential crossover fight with Ennis, or at least insert himself into the welterweight conversation.

“Ryan knows how to market himself,” said boxing analyst Chris Mannix. “He sees a rising name like Ennis getting love and wants to remind people that he’s still one of the sport’s biggest stars.”

Garcia’s manager has yet to comment officially, but insiders say the call-out could be part of a larger campaign to secure a major opponent for late 2025. Whether that includes a jump to 147 pounds remains to be seen.

Fans React

Unsurprisingly, Garcia’s comments lit up social media. Some fans backed him, agreeing that Ennis has yet to be truly tested.

“Until he beats someone like Crawford or Spence, it’s fair criticism,” one fan tweeted.

Others, however, were less forgiving.

“Garcia got KO’d by Tank and now he’s questioning Ennis? Nah, sit down,” another posted.

The debate even reached fellow boxers, with some quietly echoing Garcia’s sentiment, while others defended Ennis as a future champion-in-the-making.

Will Boots Respond?

As of now, Jaron Ennis has not responded publicly to Garcia’s remarks. Known for his quiet confidence and focus in the gym, Ennis may choose to let his fists do the talking in the ring. But with Garcia’s comments spreading fast, a response—verbal or otherwise—may be inevitable.

Whether this war of words leads to an actual fight or simply adds fuel to the promotional fire, one thing is clear: Ryan Garcia is back in the spotlight, and he’s not afraid to ruffle a few feathers to stay there.

As the boxing world watches and waits, one question looms: Will Ennis take the bait—or ignore the noise and continue his march toward greatness?