x

Keith Thurman is refusing to accept his Sebastian Fundora loss, citing a premature stoppage and a skewed broadcast narrative.

The fight reached its climax early in the sixth round when the 6’6″ Fundora trapped Thurman against the ropes, unleashing a flurry of punches. As Thurman absorbed several clean blows without an immediate response, the referee intervened to waive off the contest. The former unified welterweight champion insists he was still “in the fight” and looking for a counter-opening. 

Thurman Reacts

“Fundora’s a tremendous champion, but whoever the fk that referee was, don’t hire him for fing main event s*t again, real talk. I never got dropped in the whole fight. I’m getting caught on the back end of punches. The referee told me in the locker room, ‘show me something, move your feet, duck your head – I won’t stop the fight.’ … The fight was getting fun. People were getting on their feet. We were just getting into the grind,” Thurman said

Upon reviewing the tape, Thurman’s frustration has expanded to include the ringside commentators. He alleges that the television crew “sold” the stoppage. Thurman claims the announcers were obsessed over his facial swelling and blood.

Despite Thurman’s viewpoint, others have made their stance clear. Tim Bradley hit out at Thurman for speaking out against the stoppage, stating that the referee did him a favor by preventing him from suffering more damage.

“You need to be thanking the referee. Send him some flowers, some candy, or something for saving your ass. Referee saved your ass. You was going to be a highlight reel. You ain’t win one round. You was getting blown out,” Bradley said 

Meanwhile, the Compubox numbers showed that Thurman was second best in the fight.

Statistic Sebastian Fundora Keith Thurman
Total Strikes Landed 96 26
Punched Landed (R6) 18 2
Result Winner (TKO 6) Loser (Disputed)
Official Status WBC 154 Champion Contender

This article first appeared on BoxingNews.com and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads:

Customize Your Newsletter

Yardbarker +

Get the latest news and rumors, customized to your favorite sports and teams. Emailed daily. Always free!