Thurman vs Porter was one of the best potential Welterweight matchups currently inked on the 2016 schedule, but it looks like we’ll have to wait a while longer. The unbeaten Thurman, who was set to exchange leather with Porter on March 12th, has postponed the bout after being injured in a car accident.
But fear not. The injuries, according to a Showtime and DiBella Entertainment press release, aren’t considered to be serious enough to stop the bout from being rescheduled soon.
“While it’s unfortunate that we must temporarily postpone this marquee matchup, a main event of the magnitude of Thurman vs Porter requires both fighters be healthy and at their best,” promoter Lou DiBella said. “Keith is anxious to resume training as soon he is able and both he and Shawn are looking forward to a new fight date.”
And so are we, Lou. Let’s just hope Thurman vs Porter does eventually happen. It’s an encounter that’s certainly been elusive to fans, firstly being optioned for December 2015, then January 2016 before being finalized for March. After these Top 10-ranked fighters touch gloves, the unfolding action should have a great affect on the division.
Thurman (26-0, 22 KO) may be in possession of the WBA title right now, but there’s good reason for him to prove his supremacy over a strong, tenacious warrior like Porter (26-1-1, 16 KO). And the same goes for Porter himself; he’s crushed Paulie Malignaggi, taken Kell Brook into deep waters in a close outing, and convincingly outworked Adrien Broner. Needless to say, a victory over Thurman would be a life-changer.
What about the rest of the not-too-shabby undercard? Well, it looks like the promoters are going to keep the venue booked, go ahead with the original undercard, but move the network coverage from CBS to Showtime. Should that happen, Abner Mares vs Fernando Montiel would be upgraded to headliner, and Gary Russell Jr vs Patrick Hyland to co-support.
What’s your reaction to the Thurman vs Porter postponement? Is this crushing news? Or are you indifferent, now almost immune to boxing’s uncanny ability to keep its audience waiting?
