Keith Thurman has discussed possibly joining the Turki Alalshikh revolution after successfully returning this month.
Speaking exclusively to Worldboxingnews.com, Thurman outlined his future options, which include holding talks with Alalshikh. ‘One Time’ also kept an open mind about a potential blockbuster exhibition with YouTube Jake Paul while running the rule over Canelo Alvarez vs. Terence Crawford.
WBN began by asking Thurman whether he was willing to sign a deal with Turki Alalshikh to make a future fight with Crawford.
“I’m more than happy to sign any contract with any boxing organization that is making big fights happen,” Thurman told World Boxing News. “Crawford, Tank [Gervonta Davis], Ryan, Canelo, these guys are changing the game, and let’s not forget Jake Paul.
“You never really know what’s coming next in the boxing world.”
Thurman is linked to several opponents since stopping Brock Jarvis in three rounds in Australia. However, Crawford is off the table as he’s tied for 2025.
Crawford is facing Canelo in September at the Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas. ‘Bud’ is refusing a warm-up fight because of the bout’s high-profile nature and the fact that he has to put on 14 pounds for the clash.
The Omaha native won’t be available until mid-2026, so Thurman joins everyone else on the sidelines regarding Crawford.
Canelo vs Crawford
Asked his perspective on the Canelo fight and whether Crawford can cause an upset, Thurman aired his views without making a prediction.
“It takes a special kind of athlete to beat Canelo Alvarez; it always has and always will,” said Thurman. “No fighter is unbeatable, but Canelo is one of those rare champions who’s extremely hard to beat when he has the right mindset and game plan.
“That said, Crawford has the skills, the will, and the hunger to make history. I know a lot of people are quick to count him out, but just as many know better than to do that.
“Like I always say: if you’re not in the ring, just sit back and enjoy the fight.”
Speaking to WBN about his performance and future, the Florida boxer has a fight with Tim Tszyu, Ryan Garcia [suspension ends in April], or Errol Spence Jr. in his sights.
“The No Limits proposal [Jarvis and Tszyu promoter] to have these two fights done by early July gives me time to return to the States this fall. Hopefully, I’d like to fight in Vegas this year before 2025 ends.
“If not Tim Tszyu, I would still like the Errol Spence Jr. fight or a Charlo fight [Jermell over Jermall]. Also, Crawford, [current WBC and WBO champion] Fundora, or maybe even Vergil Ortiz – all at 154.
“But who knows, as I stay in shape, I might be able to compete at 147. It is still up for debate. I want to test Ryan Garcia.”
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Read all articles and exclusive interviews by Phil Jay. Learn more about the author, an experienced boxing writer and World Boxing News Editor since 2010.
