The expectations have reached unprecedented highs for Jaron “Boots” Ennis. The highly-ranked welterweight contender and Philadelphia native has made a name for himself over the years thanks to his bloody-thirsty knockout streak and effortless ability to fight out of both stances.

With fans of the 25-year-old expecting him to add yet another highlight-reel-worthy knockout to his collection at the expense of Karen Chukhadzhian, the Ukrainian refused to succumb to his ridiculous power.

Serving as the co-main event this past weekend at Capital One Arena in Washington D.C., the two squared off with the IBF interim crown on the line. When asked to discuss how he expects things to play out during the lead-up, Ennis gave a succinct answer, “Mike Tyson.”

Ostensibly determined to leave his man unconscious, Chukhadzhian refused to play his game, employing tactics that consisted of perpetual motion. As Ennis attempted to corner his foe, he found himself out of position on countless occasions. A restless crowd threw up their hands in frustration, booing mercilessly throughout.

Though he caused the Ukrainian to hunch over in pain in the 10th due to a body shot, Ennis would be forced to settle for a wide unanimous decision victory.

Shortly after, with his newly won trinket draped over his shoulder, Ennis (30-0, 27 KOs) proceeded to call out Errol Spence Jr., the division’s unified champion. While he claimed that a showdown against Spence is one that he craves above all, Ennis did admit that fighting Chukhadzhian was an eye-opening experience.

Derrick James, trainer of Spence, sat closely as Ennis displayed the sort of crafty style and mind-numbing power that vaulted him up the ranks. By and large, James didn’t consider his trip to D.C. a scouting mission. He also refused to chastise the up-and-coming star like his fellow contemporaries. Instead, the renowned trainer gave Ennis a standing ovation for a job well done. While it may not have been his finest hour, James believes that Ennis accomplished the most important goal on the night.

“He did what he was supposed to do,” said James to BoxingScene.com. “What he was supposed to do was win the fight.”