JARON Ennis will be taking on a new opponent on July 13. Southpaw David Avanesyan (30-4-1, 18 KOs) has stepped in to replace Cody Crowley, who had to withdraw due to ongoing eye damage. Avanesyan, a former European champion, handed Josh Kelly his first professional loss in 2021. The Newark-based fighter previously ended the undefeated streak of Spanish boxer Kerman Lejarraga, so Ennis will need to be prepared for a tough fight.
Josh Kelly learned plenty from his first pro loss against David Avanesyan in 2021 (Dave Thompson)
Headlining the event at the Wells Fargo Center, ‘Boots’ (31-0, 28 KOs) will be defending his recently upgraded IBF title for the first time. Former champion Terence Crawford defeated Avanesyan in six rounds towards the end of 2022, making this fight a good test for both fighters.
“Now that Crowley is officially out as my opponent, I think Avanesyan will actually be a better challenge,” said Ennis. “He will provide a tougher fight, which is exactly what I want. Don’t miss this exciting performance on July 13!”