All photos by Marilyn Paulino/RBRBoxing
Keith “One Time” Thurman and “Showtime” Shawn Porter did not disappoint Saturday night at the Barclays Center. They gave boxing fans exactly what they wanted, a legendary fight–one that will go down as a classic.
In an absolutely thrilling fight with two of the top welterweights going toe to toe, Thurman pulled off a unanimous-decision victory over Porter.
All three judges scored the bout the same, 115-113. Even though there was uniformity on the scorecards, this fight was a difficult one to score to say the least.
Porter was the busier fighter and wasn’t hesitant in displaying his aggressive style. He was able to control Thurman, forcing him up against the ropes for stretches throughout the fight.
Thurman on the other hand was able to thrive when the fight was in the middle of the ring, landing mean power shots. Some of Thurman’s best shots were able to wobble Porter, but Porter would not go down.
Inevitably, talk of a rematch between Thurman and Porter came up almost immediately during both fighter’s post-fight interviews.
I wouldn’t imagine many boxing fans, if any, would object to a rematch between these two warriors. Thurman-Porter II would undoubtedly be a hot ticket, with Saturday night’s fight more than living up to expectations.
There is a good chance that Thurman will face former 140-pound champion, Danny Garcia. Thurman vs. Garcia would also be an excellent and much anticipated fight.
If that fight or even Thurman vs. Brook happens instead of the rematch, Porter could entertain the idea of a fight with Amir Khan. Styles make fights and Porter vs. Khan would be a great stylistic matchup.
No matter what happens, the welterweight division just continues to become more and more competitive and the matchups are endless.
One Time and Showtime both proved that they are top contenders in the welterweight division Saturday night.
Let’s cross our fingers for a rematch and the sooner the better.
Who would like to see Shawn Porter face next?