Thurman would challenge Mayweather, but fight is unlikely

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(Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
(Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)
(Photo by Brian Blanco/Getty Images)

Keith Thurman (26-0, 22 KO’s) successfully defended his WBA World welterweight title last night in a homecoming to his native Florida. His opponent Luis Collazo (36-7, 19 KO’s) was forced to retire at the beginning of the eighth after suffering a nasty cut over his right eye in the previous round.

Aside from one good body shot delivered by Collazo that visibly affected the champion, it was a straightforward night’s work.

Nestor Gibbs of Tha Boxing Voice caught up with Thurman’s trainer Dan Birmingham after all was said and done to get an assessment the performance.

“I give him an A. He showed his diversity, he boxes well, picks his spots with his power, he moves well, great defence, good eyes, good reflexes; I give him an A.”

After the victory, Thurman made a point of calling out the soon-to-be departed pound-for-pound king Floyd Mayweather (48-0, 26 KO’s), something he has made a habit out of in the media’s presence whilst promoting this Collazo fight.

He has been actively pursuing the big one before Mayweather hangs up the gloves for good.

Birmingham has asked how good of a chance his man would have at becoming the first to beat Mayweather as a professional.

“I think he gives Mayweather the toughest fight of his career, I really do.”

“If I was Floyd I’d take an easier fight and ride out. Why risk a legacy of what he’s built up so far? I mean Keith is a young lion that would give Floyd his toughest fight and I think Floyd knows that.”

Birmingham made the statements in a plain, matter-of-fact fashion and was more believable because of it.

Thurman, with his unusual style, speed and unbelievable power would undoubtedly cause the 38-year-old Mayweather some problems, but the fact that there is no real outcry for the fight to happen, means it is very unlikely indeed.

Birmingham hit the nail on the head; why would Mayweather take such a risk against a fighter ten years his junior, especially if he isn’t being hounded to do so? There is a real chance he would mar his precious undefeated record against a little known name who is unable to generate even a third of the pay he received for dominating his greatest rival Manny Pacquiao in May.

Mayweather has had his tough fights. If he chose Thurman over Andre Berto or Karim Mayfield (whom he still insists will stand across from him in his final fight in September), it would be to the joy of everyone following his trail, but nobody can hold it against him if he opts to ease his way out with a comfortable swan song.