On March 28, at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Sebastian Fundora defends his WBC super welterweight world title against Keith Thurman on a PBC Pay-Per-View event.
These two were originally due to meet last October, before a hand injury to Fundora led to the bout being postponed. Ahead of this world title fight, both fighters met at a virtual press conference and had plenty to say.
Sebastian Fundora vs Keith Thurman trade barbs at press conference
During the virtual press conference, the reigning WBC super welterweight champion, Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs), had plenty to say:
“He says I haven’t fought any OG’s, but that’s because those OG’s aren’t around anymore.
“He looked good in his last fight, but I think my skills are better. That’s why we’re fighting. I’m planning to go in there and defend my title successfully.
“I’ve fought a lot of good fighters and I’m just seeing Thurman as another fight. This would be a good win against another accomplished former champion.
“Boxing is full of opinions. Anybody can say whatever they want. Freedom of speech. Like whoever you like, but I consider myself the best at 154 pounds.
“What I watch when I’m working my sister’s fights is a more human reaction. I can see things from the outside view that you don’t notice because you’re only focused on your opponent. It gives you a different perspective.”
Keith Thurman promises March 28 reality check
Keith “one time” Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) was his usual confident self during the presser:
“When he goes down, he’s gonna realise what a legend is. He hasn’t met one yet. He knows what he needs to tell himself to get in the ring like it’s just another day. I take it a little more serious than that, and he’s gonna find out that March 28 isn’t just another day, it’s Thurman’s day.
“Fundora is starting to get better and better. He’s starting to get some of those layers. But it takes a fight like this to really reach the highest level. That’s what makes great champions.”
“I’m healthy, and I’m ready to get in the ring and swing. I want the best. Fundora says he’s the best. I love going for the belt and taking the belt. That’s what boxing is all about.
“Danny Garcia is the only champion I’ve gotten to take the belt from. Now it’s happening for the second time and in a second division. I’m ready to keep writing my history.
“My sparring partners definitely have the height and reach that’s gotten me familiar with what I need. Of course, I won’t be facing the real Sebastian Fundora until I’m in the ring, just like he won’t be facing the real Keith Thurman until then.
“I’m in there trading punches with heavyweights for this fight. My two sparring partners are giving both of Fundora’s looks, the come-forward fighter or the back foot jabber, and they’ve got me prepared for whatever he brings on March 28.”