Keith Thurman revealed how he was hoping to get a rematch with Manny Pacquiao, something that may never happen. He had his chance and one costly mistake (relaxing) made a big difference. The fight ended in a split decision and there was no controversy in the verdict. In the eyes of many, it is time to move on for "One Time."
The first question that Thurman needs to answer is whether he is ready to return to the ring. He has been out the past seven months after undergoing surgery to fuse some bones in his left hand. Thurman has yet to try and train and the best he can do now is take aim at prospective adversaries.
One plausible opponent is Terence Crawford. The 32-year-old is undefeated in 26 fights and facing him could be the next best thing to a rematch with Pacquiao. However, it remains to be seen if "Bud" is interested in facing "One Time" once the COVID-19 pandemic dies down.
On his end, Thurman is ready and willing. He mentioned on an Instagram Live interview with Premier Boxing Champion's Ray Flores that he is willing to take on Crawford if he is interested.
“Crawford knows he can get it,” Thurman said. “I’m a very simple man, when it comes to the fight world and doing business. You know what I mean? Be real. Be real, send the contract, watch me sign it. You know what I’m saying?”
Of the fighters right now, Crawford makes the most sense. Errol Spence Jr. would have been another option but it appears the 30-year-old fighter is no longer interested. Part of this could be because "The Truth" wanted to face Thurman when he still held the WBA welterweight title. It never happened.
Thurman could look at a Crawford fight in a different way. An impressive showing could just rekindle hopes of a potential rematch with Pacquiao. Crawford is a name mentioned to be in consideration to face the Pac-Man but a loss to Thurman could ease him out and inject "One Time" in the picture.
There is no denying that Thurman wants to fight Pacquiao badly and get even. Of course, it also involves big money on his end. A win could rack in millions - something most boxers know and the reason why they are aching to get into the ring and face an eight-time division champion. But as MP Promotions President Sean Gibbons said, Thurman had his chance and now it is time to move on. Unfortunately, Thurman is having difficulty doing so.
