“I wouldn’t be surprised if he pulls it off. Very few give him a chance, but he’s a big boy. He’s strong. He has the heart and is a fighter that’s dedicated because I know he’s very dedicated, very disciplined, hard, and is big enough to be able to take Boots’ punch,” said Robert to Fight Hub TV.

Garcia went on to suggest that Ennis may need to establish control early, arguing that a drawn-out contest could favor the challenger.

“12 rounds is not going to be easy for Boots. I could tell you, 12 rounds, Boots would have to look sensational and put a beating on him in the first half of the fight. But I think if it goes late, late into it, I think Boots is in trouble because Xander has tremendous heart,” said Robert. “Big boy. He’s a warrior. He has the heart that won’t stop him. He won’t back up.”

The highly regarded trainer added that, regardless of the outcome, he expects an entertaining fight between two unbeaten fighters prepared to test themselves at the highest level.

“I think he has a chance. Honestly, I do. It’s going to be a great fight. Great fight. Can’t wait.”

Ennis has established himself as one of the leading names in the welterweight division, unifying world titles and building a reputation as one of boxing’s pound-for-pound talents. Zayas, meanwhile, is moving up from junior middleweight after capturing world honors and has repeatedly stated his ambition to challenge the very best available opposition.

Their July 25 showdown now carries even greater intrigue, with Garcia convinced that Zayas possesses the size, durability, and mentality required to ask serious questions of the champion.