The two standout figures in the super-welterweight division appear to be on an inevitable collision course, capturing the intense attention of the global boxing community. This momentum follows Fundora’s latest defense of his WBC world title over the weekend, where he successfully turned back the challenge of mandatory contender Ermal Hadribeaj in a dramatic encounter.
While the bout was far from the most comprehensive or dominant performance of Fundora’s career, the fighter affectionately known as the “Towering Inferno” showcased his trademark resilience and endurance. Proving dangerous until the final bell, Fundora managed to dramatically stop his man in the absolute final second of their grueling 12-round contest, keeping his championship reign intact and his status at the top of the division secure.
As for Ennis, his own ascent through the weight classes has been equally impressive. In June, a decisive seventh-round stoppage saw him capture both the WBO and WBA world titles, cementing his status as a two-division unified champion by impressively dethroning Xander Zayas. Following that milestone victory, the 29-year-old was initially slated to face IBF champion Josh Kelly later this year in a high-stakes bout. However, logistical shifts and scheduling updates mean their unification match has now been pushed back and is slated for early 2027.
Regardless of the timeline, Ennis could potentially find himself holding three world titles by the time he is finally ready to step into the ring against Fundora. Because of this accumulation of hardware, many pundits and observers have suggested that Ennis should naturally command the role of the A-side in any negotiations for a potential bout between the two champions.
Given that both competitors hold elite world championship status, however, promoter Lewkowicz has made it abundantly clear that compromise on financial terms will be non-negotiable. Speaking in a detailed interview with Fight Hub TV, Lewkowicz asserted that Fundora will settle for nothing less than a completely even 50/50 financial split.
Addressing the hype surrounding Ennis’s belt count, Lewkowicz pushed back against the narrative that his fighter should accept a lesser share of the purse simply because of perceived promotional leverage. He emphasized the mutual respect required when two world-class fighters put their legacies on the line.
As Lewkowicz explained during his interview, it does not matter how many titles people claim Ennis holds. Pointing out the realities of boxing politics and promotional math, the veteran promoter noted that Ennis currently holds two major belts, and that every champion deserves equal compensation for stepping into the ring against elite competition. He expressed clear respect for the sport and for Josh Kelly, acknowledging that Kelly is a formidable opponent who can genuinely fight, meaning Ennis cannot look past his upcoming assignment.
Detailing his approach to the negotiations, Lewkowicz revealed that he has already communicated his firm stance to Ennis’s advisory team. He told them directly that a 50/50 split is the only deal that will be accepted, arguing that each fighter, having sacrificed all of his life to reach the pinnacle of the sport, deserves to make the exact same money for their efforts.
As Lewkowicz quite rightly mentions, Ennis must first successfully navigate his upcoming test against Kelly if he is to eventually collide with Fundora for all four major governing body belts, leaving the division’s ultimate prize hanging in the balance as both fighters look toward their respective futures.
