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At first gaze, it becomes incredibly difficult to take your eyes off Rashidi Ellis. The stinging power, superb defense, and of course, ridiculous speed, allowed the 29-year-old to rack up a spotless record through 24 career bouts.
The superlatives used to describe his overall game, nonetheless, did little to help his star power. In addition to his lack of fanfare and notoriety, Ellis has yet to find the sort of dance partner that can take him to the next level. In his mind, his lack of big-time exposure and spotlight, stems from the rest of the welterweight division avoiding him like the plague.
“I really don’t got no rivals yet 'cause nobodies talking sh!t to me,” said Ellis recently to a group of reporters. “Nobody want this action, nobody want this smoke.”
Contrary to his beliefs, Roiman Villa happily accepted Ellis’ challenge. In what’s expected to be a jam-packed crowd, the two will square off on the undercard of Gervonta Davis vs. Hector Luis Garcia this weekend on January 7th, at the Capital One Arena in Washington D.C.
Seemingly locked in on the task at hand, Ellis is keeping a watchful eye on his surroundings. In the co-main feature, fellow welterweight contender, Jaron Ennis, will take center stage when he swaps fists against Karen Chukhadzhian.
Knowing good and well that a showdown against Ennis is a strong possibility, Ellis (24-0, 15 KOs) has stated on numerous occasions that he has no issue facing the undefeated young star. In addition to welcoming a showdown against Ennis, Ellis isn't eschewing the rest of the welterweight division’s elite. As long as everything goes according to plan and he looks spectacular this upcoming weekend in winning fashion, Ellis simply wants the best fighters around to step into the ring against him and test his mettle.
“Any of the top dogs.”