Sebastian Fundora stops Keith Thurman in Las Vegas to retain WBC title
Sebastian Fundora retained his WBC super-welterweight title by handing Keith Thurman the first stoppage defeat of his career in a dominant six-round victory in Las Vegas.
The 28-year-old champion overpowered his fellow American to secure a technical knockout victory just under the halfway stage of the scheduled 12-round contest.
The referee waved off the bout with the challenger sporting a bloodied face and entirely unable to defend against a relentless barrage of punches.
It marks the first time the former unified welterweight champion has been stopped, with his only previous defeat coming on points against Manny Pacquiao in 2019.
Towering champion exploits physical advantage
Standing at over six feet five inches, the reigning titleholder held a distinct height and reach advantage over his much smaller opponent.
He utilised this significant physical superiority effectively, consistently keeping the 37-year-old veteran at bay throughout the one-sided encounter.
The challenger’s severe ring rust was quickly apparent, having fought only twice in the seven years since his landmark defeat to Pacquiao.
His legs were visibly buckled early in the fight by a potent left hand from the defending champion.
‘It was a lot easier than I expected’
Following the victory, which improved his professional record to 24 wins, one loss, and one draw, the victor admitted the contest was surprisingly straightforward.
“It was a lot easier than I expected,” Fundora stated.
“I was a little nervous because he’s such a big name, but we got in there and I remind myself as soon as we step through everything, this is my world.”
“I think 154 is the best division right now, so whoever wants it next, we can get it.”
Thurman frustrated by premature stoppage
Despite being comprehensively outgunned, the beaten Floridian expressed deep frustration at the referee’s decision to halt proceedings.
“Win, lose, or draw, I thought it was a little bit premature,” Thurman argued.
“The fight was getting really good. The fans were loving the action and the referee stopped it too early.”
However, the veteran gracefully acknowledged his opponent’s quality, praising the devastating and awkward uppercut that ultimately caused the fight-ending cut.
