Jaron Ennis stops Xander Zayas in seventh to claim junior middleweight titles

Jaron "Boots" Ennis stopped Xander Zayas in the seventh round Saturday night to claim the WBO and WBA junior middleweight titles, according to ESPN.

Ennis sent Zayas to the canvas three times before the referee waved off the bout. The Philadelphia southpaw showcased his trademark speed and power as he moved up in weight to capture straps in a second division.

Ennis statement at 154 pounds

The victory marks Ennis's first fight at junior middleweight after relinquishing his IBF welterweight belt. Zayas, previously undefeated, had no answer for Ennis's combination punching and ring generalship.

Ennis is expected to face mandatory challengers in his new weight class later this year.

Reported via:

• ESPN Boxing — Ennis drops Zayas 3 times in dazzling title victor...