Keith Thurman put his own stamp on the deeply talented welterweight division on Saturday, beating challenger Shawn Porter by a unanimous decision to retain his World Boxing Association title.
Thurman kept his undefeated record alive and showed he deserves to be regarded as the kingpin of the welterweight division, which is moving on from the retirement of Floyd Mayweather and Manny Pacquiao.
The 27-year-old Thurman landed several solid lefts that either wobbled or staggered Porter as he won the close contest at the Barclays Centre arena in New York by scores of 115-113 on all three judges scorecards.
The clash between two Americans was supposed to be held earlier this year, but Thurman was involved in a car crash on a rain-slicked Florida street which pushed the bout back three months.
Thurman, who has been on fringes of boxing greatness, is hoping this is a breakthrough moment for him as the former champion Porter proved to be the biggest test of his career to date.
Porter lost the second 12-round fight of his career. He landed more jabs (59-32) but Thurman threw more power punches (203-177).
“We worked hard, Keith is a great champion,” Porter said. “My dad says to keep your head up. I think I won the fight, but I'm satisfied because the competitor came out tonight.
"We need that rematch. I know the fans want that rematch. If he gives me another chance, I'm going to work hard in the ring and leave with his title."
