Mirigian mentioned he was by no means introduced with a correct framework past a single determine, which he described as nicely under the extent anticipated for a combat between two unbeaten contenders of their twenties. He added {that a} counteroffer was submitted late final 12 months and dismissed with out dialogue.
Below Ortiz’s settlement with Golden Boy Promotions, Mirigian mentioned the fighter is meant to be given three opponent choices earlier than a bout is finalised. Based on Mirigian, Ennis was the one identify put ahead. No alternate options adopted. The numbers by no means modified.
That context issues as a result of Jaron Ennis will not be a routine defence or a tune up. Ortiz holds the WBC interim title at 154 kilos and has been positioned as one of many division’s future anchors. Ennis arrives as a latest unified champion from welterweight with a robust fame and leverage of his personal. Treating the combat as a take it or depart it proposal was all the time going to steer right here.
Golden Boy chairman Oscar De La Hoya mentioned Monday that he was shifting on after Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn didn’t reply by a casual deadline. Mirigian mentioned deadlines imply nothing when the opposite aspect has not been engaged immediately.
He additionally disputed claims {that a} 55 p.c to 45 p.c cut up had ever been agreed in writing. Mirigian mentioned his counteroffer was deliberately easy. A set assure for Ortiz. Let the remaining events divide the upside nevertheless they select.
Different names floated publicly as replacements solely underline the difficulty. Sebastian Fundora is tied up with a deliberate defence. Errol Spence Jnr has not fought since mid 2023. None of that explains why probably the most aggressive combat obtainable at 154 kilos stalled on the opening quantity stage.
The broader enterprise image solely provides stress. Golden Boy’s broadcast future is unclear past the subsequent few weeks. A number of reveals are scheduled with out clear long run backing. In opposition to that backdrop, risking friction with Ortiz over a premium combat has left many observers confused.
Mirigian’s place stays unchanged. Ortiz needs the combat. His crew is open to talks. The cellphone, he mentioned, has not rung.
At this level, the impediment will not be willingness. It’s management.
