Xander Zayas is brushing off the doubts. Critics say he's too young, too inexperienced, and lacks punching power. But the 23-year-old unified super welterweight champion is confident he'll silence them all when he steps into the ring against Jaron "Boots" Ennis on June 27 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
"I feel like every fight is important, but this one is different because you have two undefeated fighters who are well known in the boxing world," Zayas told TMZ Sports. "A lot of fans want to see it — two hungry lions looking to build their legacy. I'm really excited."
Zayas (23-0, 13 KOs) acknowledges the high stakes of facing Ennis (35-0, 31 KOs), a powerful puncher. Despite being a +375 underdog, Zayas says he's used to being doubted. "That's always been the case in my life," he said. "I've always faced older, more experienced guys, and I've come out on top."
Now, he plans to prove he's the best 154-pound fighter in the world. The clash of undefeated champions promises fireworks, and Zayas is ready to show he belongs at the top.