Quote Originally Posted by Kirkland Laing View Post
Quote Originally Posted by Spicoli View Post
It was a fun fight. But I wouldn't say people are hating on him as there is some to criticise. A big one is still waving a belt around off 2 yrs of doing nothing. Two yrs out is a long time but it can also be said that it's also more than enough time and prep to ensure readiness. I actually worry more about his defence and that after he was hurt he never regained a power advantage. He basically got on his bike and shadow boxed. I mean hell, Mikey Garcia took two years off and now sits ready to challenge the top guy in Thurmans division and a name Thurman wouldn't even speak Saturday. I really wonder if Thurman has assumed too much and let it pass him by a bit.
Thurman has almost always got on his bike in the later rounds at world level. I think there was a lot of ring rust this time but even allowing for that I wasn't impressed with him at all. I'm not sure he's all that hungry anymore, and I don't think he'd beat Manny if that fight happens next. Two years is a hell of a long time to be out for those injuries. I think mentally he's checked out already and wants a big payday or two and he'll call it a career.
Reminded me a bit of the Bundu ? fight. Look fierce early and by bathe end he's counting the ticks of the clock. Not sure how close he and Manny are but he's talking 'late' in year and surely he won't risk anyone major in a tune up so sounds like his year is a wrap. I agree with the mentality, the man is fundamentally sound but he acts like someone with one foot out the door at times.