Jaron Ennis is undoubtedly one of the most talented fighters the welterweight division has ever seen. Debuting almost a decade ago, Boots has an unblemished record of 33-0 with 29 KOs and will start his journey of unifying the division on April 12 against Eimantas Stanionis.
Though Boots rightfully owns much of his meteoric rise, he’s quick to admit it wasn’t a solo climb. His title, his undefeated streak, his domination in the boxing world, and even his moniker “Boots,” tracks back to one man: His father, Derek ‘Bozy’ Ennis, who not only brought him into the sport but also shaped him up as the resilient fighter he has become.
Meet Derek Ennis, Jaron Ennis’ father and coach
Derek Ennis ranks amongst Philly’s finest trainers. He started his coaching career at Next Champ Gym, located at 1082 Grant Avenue in the greater Northeastern part of Philadelphia, where he trained his three sons. Bozy himself had a short pro boxing career in the middleweight division spanning from 1977 to 1984. His career ended abruptly after six fights and a record of 4-2 after the death of his trainer Al Styles.
After hanging up his gloves, he found his groove in training, eventually opening his own gym ‘Boxy’s Dungeon’ and shaping the lives of countless Philly kids. He not only teaches jabs and hooks but also instills the value of discipline, resilience, and determination into his students. A reason why he prefers the term ‘Teacher’ instead of coach.
Jaron Ennis has often opened up about the role of his father in his career growing up. The gym was like his second home since childhood. He said, “I was in the gym from like nine months, before I could even walk when I was crawling.” Even now, the 27-year-old holds his gym in high regard and after every fight goes back to spar with young and upcoming fighters.
Ennis Jr. also attributes his discipline and work ethic to his father. “My discipline comes from my dad and watching the mistakes my brothers made outside of the ring during their careers,” he confessed a few years back. However, it was not only Jaron Ennis’ father who acted as a driving force. Another figure loomed large, quietly assuring that he never stray from the path.
All about Jaron Ennis’ mother and family
Despite being out of the spotlight, Sharon Ennis has been a looming figure in Jaron Ennis’ life. She was always his silent supporter and played a unique role in her son’s development as a resilient warrior. While there is very limited information available regarding her, her mark is clear, starting with Ennis’ moniker.
Sharon used to call her son ‘Boops’ as a boy. However, the nickname was misheard in the gym one day as ‘Boots’ and since then it has been stuck. Even the IBF welterweight champion didn’t try to change it. Beyond the nickname, she has been a practical support to her son and has kept him grounded through all the success. Boots’ brothers, Farah and Derek Jr. are retired pro boxers themselves. They inspired him to keep on walking down the path and now help their father in running their gym.
As Jaron Ennis gears up to fight the biggest bout of his career, the whole family and Philly’s undying soul will be behind him, cheering him on until he’s poured out every ounce.
The post Who Is Jaron Ennis’ Coach and Father Derek Ennis? Parents & Family appeared first on EssentiallySports.
