Diego Chaves vs Keith Thurman Preview July 27
Diego Chaves of Argentina will square off with American Keith Thurman over 12 rounds for the WBA’s interim Welterweight Championship at the AT and T Center in San Antonio, Texas this Saturday July 27. The unbeaten Thurman is considered to be one of the hottest young prospects in boxing today while Chaves is also currently undefeated and has quite a bit of power in his fists.
The 24-year-old Thurman also has dynamite in his fists as he’s built up a record 0f 22-0 since turning pro back in 2007 and has stopped 18 of his opponents. He had an excellent amateur career and his last bout was a wide unanimous decision over Jan Zaveck in March. However, Thurman hasn’t met a Grade A boxer as of yet and it will be interesting to see how he performs when he finally steps into the ring against one.
The 27-year-old Chaves also has an impeccable record and will climb through the ring ropes with the same mark as Thurman at 22-0 with 18 Kos. Chaves also enjoyed a fine amateur career and has adapted well to the pro game. He comes into the fight with a lot of power to go along with good hand speed and aggressiveness. He won the WBA’s interim title last July when he knocked Ismael El Massoudi out in the second round.
Chaves successfully defended the belt against Jose Miranda and now hopes to make it two in a row over Thurman. This will be a lot easier said than done though since Thurman is his equal or superior in most boxing categories. Thurman doesn’t come in second to Chaves in speed, power and footwork etc. Both men know what they’re doing at all times in the ring and this could lead to an interesting, but perhaps a bit of a dull bout.
If they both decide to go for broke though it could be just the opposite and quite an entertaining battle. Fans want to see two fighters go for a win rather than try not to lose and that’s what we should see here. They each have a lot of power and it will also be interesting to see how they react if they get tagged right on the chin.
Prediction
Chaves will likely be the aggressor and try to land some power shots on the untested Thurman. The American doesn’t mind boxing while backing up and is quite effective at it due to his excellent footwork. Thurman will have to stand his ground at some point though and needs to land punches to win rounds. He needs to keep the proper distance, counterpunch and then stay out of Chaves’ reach. If he can land quick and effective shots Thurman should be able to take the title here by a decision, although it’s just an interim belt.
Diego Chaves betting • Keith Thurman betting