Undefeated boxing promoter and occasional firebrand, Eddie Hearn once again took center stage with his bold declarations. This time, Hearn has called for a “lifetime ban” for American professional boxer Ryan Garcia. Hearn further continues his tirade, venting his frustrations and laying serious allegations on Premier Boxing Champions (PBC) over their handling of Jaron “Boots” Ennis.
Eddie Hearn, who promotes fighters under the Matchroom Boxing banner, couldn’t hold back his disapproval of the treatment American welterweight Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis was receiving from PBC. Ennis, under the promotional assistance of PBC, has continually been shunned out from potentially career-defining fights, and Hearn went public with his frustrations.
“PBC’s handling of Boots Ennis has been nothing less than an utter debacle. A stunning talent like Ennis deserves better opportunities than what he’s been given. He is potentially one of the next big stars in the welterweight division, and what he needs now are big fights, not the scanty opportunities he’s been presented with“, stated Hearn on his latest interview.
Moreover, it’s not only Ennis who has caught Hearn’s attention. Ryan Garcia, the undefeated lightweight sensation, who recently pulled out of a fight with Javier Fortuna, citing his struggles with health and well-being, triggered Hearn’s ire too.
Hearn made his sentiments known saying, “Ryan Garcia should be banned for life. What he did – pulling out of a world title fight at such short notice that too on non-physical grounds is unheard of. It sets a poor precedent and sends a wrong message to upcoming fighters.”
Hearn’s remarks add to the growing list of controversies circling Garcia’s sudden withdrawal, which has brought up debates on fighter welfare and mental health in the boxing sphere. One could argue that Hearn’s stringent stand mirrors the traditional outlook that suppresses open discussions on mental health within the sport.
In contrast to his furious tirade against Garcia and the PBC, Hearn’s own promotional company, Matchroom Boxing, recently celebrated its successful cooperation with streaming platform DAZN, establishing itself as a global powerhouse in boxing promotion. This collaboration has further fortified Hearn’s influence in the boxing ecosystem, amplifying his voice, and in effect, the impact of his statements.
Critics argue that such blunt and explosive declarations from figures like Hearn potentially stifle the feelings of fighter welfare, especially in complex situations surrounding matters such as mental health, as illustrated in the Ryan Garcia case.
Though Hearn’s candidness may strike as brash to some, he remains one of the most influential figures in boxing. His recent remarks reflect more than an individual concern; they underscore the deep-seated issues within boxing management.
As always, it appears Eddie Hearn’s purpose extends beyond mere controversy. His unabashed appraisal of prominent establishments like PBC might be a necessary impetus to spark a revolution in handling talent within the boxing industry.
In conclusion, whether you agree or disagree with Hearn’s stand, it injects much-needed dialogue and introspection into the paradoxical universe of boxing. And, perhaps, these discussions could path the way for a healthier, more sustainable path forward for the sport and its athletes.
