In a fight that could reshape the welterweight and junior middleweight divisions, former world champion Keith “One Time” Thurman is set to face off against Tim Tszyu, the rising Australian star and reigning WBO junior middleweight champion. This highly anticipated bout pits Thurman’s experience and power against Tszyu’s relentless aggression and technical prowess, making it one of the most intriguing matchups of the year.

However, what has truly sent shockwaves through the boxing community is Shawn Porter’s bold prediction for the fight. The former welterweight world champion, who has fought some of the biggest names in the sport—including Thurman himself—has given an analysis that few saw coming.

Why does Porter believe this fight will shake up the sport?
What key factors could determine the winner?
Will Thurman’s return to top-level competition be a triumphant comeback or a harsh reality check?

Let’s break down the stylistic clash, potential fight strategies, and why Porter’s prediction is turning heads.

Keith Thurman: A Veteran Seeking Redemption

At his peak, Keith Thurman (30-1, 22 KOs) was one of the most feared welterweights in the world. His combination of explosive power, footwork, and ring IQ made him a dominant force, capturing multiple world titles and boasting wins over elite fighters like Shawn Porter and Danny García.

However, injuries and inactivity have slowed Thurman’s momentum in recent years. Since his split-decision loss to Manny Pacquiao in 2019, he has fought only once—an unimpressive unanimous decision victory over Mario Barrios in 2022.

Strengths and Weaknesses

Powerful punching ability—Thurman has 22 knockouts and has hurt nearly every opponent he’s faced.
High-level footwork—He uses angles well and can evade incoming attacks.
Big fight experience—He has fought and beaten multiple world champions.

Ring rust and inactivity—fighting just once in four years is a major disadvantage.
Questionable durability—Pacquiao hurt him to the body, and he’s shown vulnerability against pressure fighters.
Size disadvantage: moving up in weight against a natural 154-pounder could be a major challenge.

For Thurman, this fight represents a chance to prove he still belongs among the sport’s elite, but many are questioning whether his time has passed.

Tim Tszyu: The Rising Star Looking to Make a Statement

Tim Tszyu (24-0, 17 KOs) has rapidly established himself as one of the most dangerous fighters in the junior middleweight division. The son of legendary former champion Kostya Tszyu, Tim has forged his own path with a style that combines aggressive pressure, precise counterpunching, and a relentless work rate.

Since his breakout win over Tony Harrison, Tszyu has only strengthened his reputation, dominating former world champions and proving that he is a legitimate force at 154 pounds.

Strengths and Weaknesses

✔ Relentless pressure fighting—Tszyu suffocates opponents with volume and aggression.
✔ Superior size and strength—As a natural junior middleweight, he will have the physical edge.
✔ Durability and chin—He has shown the ability to take punches and keep coming forward.

Lacks elite-level opposition— Despite impressive wins, he has yet to face a fighter of Thurman’s caliber.
Defensive vulnerabilities—His aggressive style leaves openings for countershots.
Speed disadvantage: Thorman’s movement could give him problems if he struggles to cut off the ring.

For Tszyu, this fight is a massive opportunity to add a marquee name to his resume and silence any remaining critics.

Shawn Porter’s Bold Prediction: A Shocking Twist?

As someone who has shared the ring with Keith Thurman, Shawn Porter has a unique perspective on what makes him dangerous. However, when analyzing this fight, Porter’s prediction has stunned fans.

“I think this fight could end in a stoppage—and I’m leaning toward Tszyu getting the win,” Porter recently stated.

Many expected Porter to back his former rival Thurman, given his past experience with him. However, he pointed to key factors that could tip the fight in Tszyu’s favor:

Thurman’s inactivity will cost him Going against a relentless fighter like Tszyu after such a long layoff is a dangerous proposition. Thurman may not be able to keep up with the pace and pressure.
Thurman’s body is a known weakness; Porter referenced how Manny Pacquiao hurt Thurman to the body, and Tszyu is known for his vicious body punching. If Tszyu targets the midsection early, it could wear down Thurman quickly.
Tszyu’s strength at 154 pounds: Moving up in weight is never easy, and Porter believes that Thurman won’t be able to handle Tszyu’s power and size over the course of 12 rounds.

Porter also did not rule out Thurman pulling off a shocking win, but he emphasized that Tszyu has all the momentum heading into the fight.

How the Fight Could Play Out: Potential Scenarios

Scenario 1: Tszyu Breaks Thurman Down for a Late Stoppage (Most Likely According to Porter)

Thurman starts fast, using his footwork and experience to control the distance.
By the mid-rounds, Tszyu begins landing body shots, slowing Thurman down.
In the championship rounds, Tszyu overwhelms Thurman, forcing a referee stoppage or corner retirement.

Scenario 2: Thurman Outboxes Tszyu and Wins a Close Decision

Thurman uses his speed and movement to frustrate Tszyu early.
He lands clean counters and avoids prolonged exchanges.
Tszyu’s pressure is not enough to overcome Thurman’s boxing ability, leading to a narrow points win.

Scenario 3: A Brutal War Ends in a Controversial Split Decision

Both fighters have moments of dominance.
The fight is a back-and-forth battle, with both men landing heavy shots.
The judges deliver a controversial decision, leaving fans debating the outcome.

Conclusion: A Fight That Could Reshape the Division

Thurman vs. Tszyu is not just another fight—it’s a potential turning point for both men.

If Thurman wins, he immediately becomes a major player at 154 pounds, potentially setting up a super fight with Jermell Charlo or Terence Crawford.
If Tszyu wins, he solidifies his place as one of the best in the division and possibly forces a massive showdown with Canelo Álvarez or Errol Spence Jr.

With Shawn Porter’s shocking prediction adding even more intrigue, fans are eagerly awaiting this clash. Will Thurman prove he still has it, or will Tszyu announce himself as the next dominant force in boxing?

One thing is for sure—this fight will shake up the boxing world, no matter the outcome.