Boots hits the block: Ennis leads hundreds at South Philly community workout

South Philly came alive on Saturday as Matchroom in the Community hosted Boots on the Ground – a two-hour workout and celebration of community boxing led by hometown hero Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis.

Hundreds of young people, families and local boxing gyms gathered at Ralph Brooks Park to take part in an action-packed afternoon of training, fan engagement and live action in the ring.

Adding to the atmosphere, Philadelphia’s own DJ RL kept the crowd moving on the decks, while local stars lent their support in attendance, including super middleweight contender Jesse Hart and former two-time heavyweight champion of the world, Tim Witherspoon.

The event opened with a high-tempo warm-up led by community coaches, before youngsters rotated through a specially designed Boxing Taster Circuit. Stations were hosted by some of Philadelphia’s most respected gyms, including James Shuler Memorial Boxing Gym, Front Street Gym, Marian Anderson Boxing, 365 Boxing and Bozy’s Dungeon – with each bringing their own energy and expertise to the park.

From stance and balance drills to themed shadow boxing, pad sessions and fitness conditioning, the circuit gave South Philly’s next generation of fighters the chance to sharpen their skills under the watchful eye of their professional heroes.

The response from local gyms and young boxers showed the depth of Philadelphia’s boxing community, something Alex Le Guével, Head of Community Development at Matchroom Boxing, was keen to highlight as part of Matchroom’s long-term commitment to the area.

“Today’s event showed exactly what we’re aiming to achieve through our wider strategic vision – bringing boxing back to its grassroots and making sure young people have access to inspiring role models like Boots,” said Le Guével.

“Philadelphia has such a proud boxing tradition and – with our partners at Fighting Chance USA – we want to play our part in strengthening local provision, so the sport continues to thrive for generations to come.”

As the community tasters drew to a close, attention turned back to the ring for the undercard action. Rising Philly prospect Dennis Thompson was first up, showcasing his sharp skills in an open workout that underlined the city’s conveyor belt of boxing talent and gave the crowd a taste of what to expect on fight night.

That set the stage for the highlight of the day – a special presentation of the prestigious Ring Magazine World Title to Jaron Ennis by his family. The crowd, pressed in around the ring, roared its approval – celebrating their hometown star in the heart of South Philly.

With the cheers still echoing across Ralph Brooks Park, Boots went straight into his open workout, mixing sharp pad work, skipping and punch combinations with moments of interaction for the youngsters at ringside. It was both a display of world-class skill and a reminder of the bond he shares with his community.

The day concluded with Boots stepping down from the ring apron to spend time with the fans who had turned out in force. He posed for photos with the assembled youngsters, signed pictures, handed out his own merchandise and helped arrange ticket giveaways to ensure as many local kids as possible could be part of his journey.

“It means everything to give back to my community,” beamed Ennis.

“I was once that kid watching the pros and dreaming of these moments – so if I can inspire even one youngster here today, that’s a win,” he added.

“Now it’s time to lock in, do the business on October 11th and bring it home for everyone in Philly that continues to ride with me.”

The MC closed proceedings by reminding everyone that the energy at Ralph Brooks Park was just the beginning – all eyes now turn to Xfinity Mobile Arena on Saturday 11th October, where Philadelphia’s proud boxing heritage will once again be thrust into the spotlight.

That tradition was front of mind for Robert Murray Jr, Vice President for Development, Community Engagement & Government Affairs at Comcast Spectacor – and a key driving force behind the event – who spoke about the city’s deep boxing roots and why days like this matter.

“Boxing is part of Philly’s DNA. From Joe Frazier to Bernard Hopkins and now Jaron Ennis, our city has always produced champions inside the ring and out,” explained Murray Jr.

“Events like this not only celebrate that legacy, but ensure it’s passed on to the next generation by keeping the community connected through the sport we love.”

The South Philly crowd left inspired, energised and united – with the day once again demonstrating the vital role boxing plays in building safer, healthier and happier communities.

Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis faces Uisma Lima in a high-stakes WBA World Super-Welterweight Title Final Eliminator, headlining a stacked night of boxing live worldwide on DAZN.

Tickets for the Philadelphia showdown are available now at: www.matchroomboxing.com/tickets.