Richardson Hitchins predicted a 50-50 outcome for a theoretical Terence Crawford vs. Jaron “Boots” Ennis fight on 2024-05-24. Hitchins, having sparred extensively with both elite fighters, provided a unique and informed perspective on the potential clash.
This potential clash remains one of boxing’s most talked-about matchups, despite Crawford’s retirement in December 2025. Jaron Ennis, meanwhile, is on a determined path to unify the super welterweight division, a feat that could potentially tempt Crawford back into action to chase an unprecedented fourth undisputed world championship.
Hitchins’ Unique Sparring Insights
Richardson Hitchins’ insights are particularly compelling because he’s shared the squared circle with both men in sparring sessions. During an interview with Sean Zittel, Hitchins revealed that only Terence Crawford had ever truly “touched him up” in sparring, a significant admission from a fighter known for his own skill. This encounter happened when Hitchins was just 17.
His experience with Crawford left a profound impression. Hitchins described Crawford as “very smart” and “very slick,” highlighting his ability to seamlessly switch stances and adapt. Crawford’s comprehensive skill set allows him to “do it all,” according to Hitchins, making him an incredibly difficult puzzle to solve.
Early Encounters and Lasting Impressions
Hitchins also has a history with Jaron Ennis, though their encounters date back to their amateur days. Ennis defeated Hitchins in both the 2015 Youth National Championships and the 2015 National Golden Gloves. These early competitive bouts provided Hitchins with a foundational understanding of Ennis’s abilities and style.
He characterised Jaron Ennis as a fighter who “hits hard” and possesses immense physical strength. Ennis’s “very athletic” and “very explosive” qualities are also undeniable. This makes him a dynamic and dangerous opponent in the welterweight or super welterweight divisions, with his youth and athleticism often cited as key advantages.
The Crawford-Chukhadzhian Parallel
In making his prediction, Richardson Hitchins drew a striking comparison between Terence Crawford and Ukrainian boxer Karen Chukhadzhian, an opponent Ennis has defeated twice. Hitchins argued that Chukhadzhian brought many similarities to Crawford’s professional approach. These include composure, excellent movement, precise distance management, and good footwork.
Chukhadzhian, Hitchins noted, “gave Boots fits,” suggesting Ennis had difficulty with a style mirroring aspects of Crawford’s. The crucial difference, however, lies in power. “The only difference is that Karen don’t got the firepower and offence that Bud got,” Hitchins explained, “Bud’s s**t is coming back sharp and fast.”
Richardson Hitchins reasoned that if Chukhadzhian was able to land punches on Ennis, then the “math is adding up a little bit” for Crawford. This analytical breakdown, based on shared ring time and observation, ultimately led Hitchins to declare the hypothetical matchup a “50-50 fight.” This take counters broader public opinion.
Jaron Ennis’s Ascent to Stardom
Jaron Ennis has solidified his position as one of boxing’s most formidable talents. The American fighter, 29 years old, boasts an undefeated professional record of 36 wins, with 32 knockouts. He held the IBF welterweight title from 2023 to 2025, elevated to full champion status after Terence Crawford was stripped of the belt.
Ennis further unified titles on April 12, 2025, by defeating Eimantas Stanionis to add the WBA welterweight and The Ring titles. His ambition, however, extends beyond welterweight dominance. In June 2025, Ennis announced his move up to the super welterweight division, vacating his welterweight titles.
Targeting Super Welterweight Unification
Since his move, Ennis has wasted no time making an impact at 154 pounds. He secured the WBA interim super welterweight title on October 11, 2025. By June 27, 2026, he had become the unified WBA and WBO light middleweight champion by stopping Xander Zayas in the seventh round. Ennis is now aiming for full undisputed status.
Jaron Ennis’s most recent fight was against Xander Zayas on June 27, 2026, and a prior fight was against Cody Crowley on July 13, 2024. Achieving undisputed status at super welterweight would not only cement his legacy but also potentially create the ideal scenario to lure Crawford back for a legacy-defining clash.
Terence Crawford’s Unrivalled Legacy and Potential Return
Terence “Bud” Crawford, 39, retired in December 2025 as one of boxing’s undisputed greats, an undefeated fighter with 42 wins and 31 knockouts. His career saw him achieve undisputed status in three different weight classes: light welterweight in 2017, welterweight in 2023 after defeating Errol Spence Jr., and super middleweight in 2025 against Canelo Álvarez.
This made him the first male boxer in the “four-belt era” to accomplish this rare feat.
Crawford’s decision to retire after 17 years in the sport, with his perfect record intact, was understandable given his accomplishments. However, the prospect of becoming the first-ever four-division undisputed champion could prove a powerful incentive for a comeback. Such an achievement would further cement his place in boxing history.
The Allure of a Fourth Undisputed Crown
The lure of a fourth undisputed title would be immense for Crawford. It represents a chance to redefine what’s possible in modern boxing and elevate his already legendary status. While he retired as the lineal and unified super middleweight world champion, claiming all four major belts in another division would be a monumental task. This historical opportunity could bring him out of retirement.
His long-time trainer, Brian ‘Bo Mac’ McIntyre, has been with Crawford throughout his entire career. A potential return would see McIntyre guiding his charge through one of his most significant training camps. This would prepare him for the explosive threat Jaron Ennis presents. His disciplined approach has yielded unparalleled success.
Weighing the Stakes for a Generational Clash
A hypothetical fight between Terence Crawford and Jaron Ennis would be more than just a title bout; it would be a generational clash of undefeated titans. For Crawford, it’s about legacy and an unprecedented achievement. He’d be risking a pristine undefeated record against a younger, hungry, and powerful opponent, but the reward might just outweigh that risk.
For Ennis, facing Crawford would represent the ultimate test and a chance to truly announce himself as the undisputed pound-for-pound king. Beating a retired legend in his comeback fight would catapult Ennis to superstardom, a pivotal moment that could define his career. The stakes for both men could not be higher, promising a spectacle for fans.
Navigating a Return for Crawford
Crawford’s last professional bout was on September 13, 2025, where he defeated Canelo Álvarez to become the undisputed super middleweight champion. Stepping back into the ring after retirement, especially against an active, top-tier fighter like Ennis, presents unique challenges. Ring rust, even for a fighter of Crawford’s calibre, would be a genuine concern.
He’d also need to decide on a weight class, likely welterweight or junior middleweight, to accommodate both fighters. The negotiation of terms, weight, and purses for such a monumental event would be complex. Financial incentives alone, however, would be staggering, making it a highly attractive proposition for all involved parties in boxing promotion.
Ennis’s Ultimate Test
Jaron Ennis, while highly touted and supremely skilled, has yet to face an opponent with the strategic depth and championship pedigree of Terence Crawford. His father and trainer, Derek “Bozy” Ennis, would need to craft a game plan. This fight would not just be a physical battle but a tactical chess match of the highest order.
The fight would also test Ennis’s mental fortitude, stepping into the ring against a future Hall of Famer who has consistently overcome every challenge. It’s a defining moment for Ennis. This could either validate his status as the next big thing or send him back to the drawing board to refine his approach.
Fan Anticipation and the Prospect of a Blockbuster
The boxing community remains divided on whether Terence Crawford should risk his perfect record against a younger, explosive talent like Jaron Ennis. Many purists believe Crawford has nothing left to prove, having conquered multiple divisions. Others argue that pursuing a fourth undisputed title against a prime contender like Ennis would be the ultimate capstone.
Despite differing opinions, the sheer thought of Crawford’s technical brilliance meeting Ennis’s raw power and athleticism creates immense anticipation. It’s the kind of blockbuster fight that transcends typical boxing matchups, drawing in casual fans alongside dedicated followers. Hitchins’ prediction only fuels the conversation, adding another layer of expert opinion to an already compelling narrative. The sport waits to see if this dream matchup materializes.
