Junior welterweight contender Xander Zayas has entered a new phase of preparation for his upcoming fight against Jaron Ennis, teaming up with former undisputed champion Terence Crawford in training camp. The collaboration marks a significant shift in Zayasās approach as he readies himself for what is widely regarded as the biggest fight of his career to date.
The move has added a serious layer to his camp, as Crawford brings deep expertise in handling speed, angles, pressure, and elite-level timing. According to those inside the camp, Zayas is not merely sharpening his technique but is focused on building strength, adding toughness, and preparing his body for the physical firepower that Ennis can bring at the 154-pound division. The training regimen emphasizes balance, conditioning, and the ability to hold his ground during exchanges, with sessions designed to keep him from being pushed out of position against a fighter known for controlling the ring.
Zayasās camp is built around becoming strong enough to withstand a physical fight, with an emphasis on rhythm, timing, and footwork. He is using jump rope work to sharpen small details, including regular jumps to build rhythm and light feet, high knees to push conditioning, and double unders to improve speed, coordination, and explosiveness.
The focus on his legs is considered one of the most critical aspects of this camp, as strong legs help him hold position, move in and out, and stay balanced when pressure comes from different angles. Roadwork is also a key component, indicating that Zayas is preparing for a long fight rather than just a strong start, building the lungs and discipline needed to stay sharp in later rounds. A member of his team stated, “We’re kind of mid-stage in camp in terms of his conditioning. It’s just going to get better from here,” and added, “We’re planning for everything. We’re planning for Boots to put pressure. We’re planning for Boots to move around the ring.”
On the other side, Jaron Ennis is not taking this fight lightly and has been sharpening his own skills with serious work in camp. Sparring with Demetrius Andrade, a slick and experienced fighter, has been a key part of Ennisās preparation, helping him with patience, timing, counters, and staying calm when the rhythm changes.
Andrade, after sharing rounds with Ennis, expressed confidence in the fighter, stating, “I just think Boots has everything it takes to stay in the game, stay on top of the game for a long time,” and added, “I’m team Boots, so I believe he’s going to pull it off.” Ennis himself described his camp as productive, saying, “I’ve been getting great work this camp. Different work each week, real routine guys out. I’m feeling tremendous.” He is practicing rhythm, foot placement, and defense, with every punch appearing purposeful as he prepares for a disciplined opponent in Zayas.
The buildup to the fight has grown increasingly personal, with Ennis making bold statements about his intentions. He has taunted that he will put Zayas to sleep, sending a clear message that his power carries at 154 pounds.
Ennis has also warned Zayas that he plans to take both of his belts on fight night, speaking not as a challenger but as someone who already believes those titles are coming home with him. This kind of talk puts pressure on both fighters: Ennis must deliver on his promise of a finish, while Zayas must defend his respect and championships. When asked about Terence Crawford helping Zayas in training, Ennis dismissed any concern, saying he does not pay Crawford any mind and asserting, “I’m the best at 154. Everybody know it.”
The fight is scheduled for June 27th, and both camps are in the mid-to-late stages of preparation. Zayas has stated that nothing changes for him, calling it the most important fight of his career but maintaining that every fight is important.
He emphasized his confidence, saying, “I know who I am. I know what I put myself through every camp.” Ennis, meanwhile, believes he needs only eight weeks of camp, noting that he is always in the gym anyway. The matchup presents a key question: whether Zayas can keep Ennis under control long enough to make it competitive, or whether Ennis will find openings once he settles in. With both fighters sharpening their weapons, the bout promises to be a defining moment at 154 pounds.
