Brian Norman Jr’s father, Brian Sr., voiced concerns about the chances of Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis ever achieving the status of undisputed welterweight champion, attributing it to what he perceives as Eddie Hearn’s unfair negotiation tactics. Norman Sr. revealed a substantial gap in offer amounts, with Ennis slated to receive $5 million for his upcoming fight on November 9th, while Norman Jr. was only offered $1.75 million for a fight in Philadelphia. Norman Sr. stressed the necessity for an increased offer of $2.2 million to ensure his son nets $1.2 million after deductions.
Despite his optimism about the potential bout with Ennis, Norman Sr. insisted that the fight be held on neutral ground in Las Vegas, a condition likely to face opposition from Hearn, who sees the revenue potential in a Philadelphia match. The disparity in financial compensation is a sticking point, as Ennis stands to make significantly more, leading to a deadlock in negotiations.
Norman Sr. encouraged Ennis to contemplate sacrificing $500,000 from his purse to make the fight happen with his son, highlighting the long-term benefits of such an investment. He expressed disappointment in Hearn’s unwillingness to meet their financial expectations, suggesting a lack of regard for the matchup’s potential compared to other high-profile fights.
Amid the ongoing talks, Norman Sr. stressed the importance of equitable pay for his son, advocating for a resolution that satisfies both sides. He highlighted Norman Jr.’s promising future as a sports star, foreseeing a bright career with the right opportunities and backing from Top Rank. Ultimately, the ball is in Ennis’s court regarding the next steps, with significant ramifications for his professional journey.
