Manny Pacquiao 2019: Keith Thurman Expected to Fight Filipino Senator on July 20; Confirmation to Drop in Two Weeks

In the past few months, there have been multiple names touted to be the next challenge for Manny Pacquiao. Errol Spence Jr., Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia, and Keith Thurman were the fighters that have been mentioned in several publications.

Now, only one remained among the four: Keith Thurman. The camp of the WBA super champion is supposedly in talks with Manny Pacquiao’s party to iron out the details of the fight. News regarding this front is expected to come out in two weeks’ time, Philstar reported.

If everything pans out, the two champions could see each other in the ring sometime on July 20, with the bout speculated to be held at MGM Grand. So how well is Keith Thurman matches against Manny Pacquiao?

Well, the clear advantage of the American boxer is his age. At 30 years old, he’s a decade younger than the Filipino slugger and has the benefit of youth on his side. But even though Manny Pacquiao’s heyday is long past, the fighting Senator is still a dangerous opponent due to his fighting style and deceptive power.

One would only look at the Adrien Broner bout to see that the 40-year-old boxing icon is still a threat in the ring; his speed and unpredictable movements the main factors for his recent victory. As such, Keith Thurman would do well to prepare for both these elements, especially since Manny Pacquiao still has the capacity to put a fighter down the canvass.

But apart from the abovementioned advantages by the future Hall of Famer, Keith Thurman should also prepare himself for a grueling 12 rounds. Manny Pacquiao’s stamina is something to behold despite his age, with him able to keep up a relentless pace from start to finish. Of course, there will be breathing room in between but the majority of exchange will undoubtedly test Keith Thurman’s stamina.

During his fight with Josesito Lopez, there were times when the WBA super champion was dangerously close to getting knockout. If such weaknesses are displayed during his match against Manny Pacquiao, there’s no doubt that the 40-year-old will take full advantage of it. Meanwhile, Errol Spence Jr. is expected to fight Shawn Porter next.

If Manny Pacquiao manages to win against Keith Thurman, and Errol Spence Jr. defeats Shawn Porter, it’s assumed that Pacquiao and Spence will be pitted against each other. Boxing fans are hoping that this would be the case as a fight between two southpaws who have a penchant for aggressive playstyles will be one spectacular display to witness.