Sebastian Fundora Believes Keith Thurman Win Will Elevate Him to "Superstar Level" in Boxing

Sebastian Fundora is set to defend his WBC super welterweight title against former welterweight world champion Keith ‘One Time’ Thurman on March 28th. Commenting on how the rescheduling of this fight due to injury ultimately proved beneficial just days before the PBC Pay-Per-View event on Prime Video, Fundora stated:

"Right now, we're in good shape, ready to fight... Injuries are part of sports, so it wasn't a shock. It did impact us, naturally, but we had time to recover. We're still facing the same opponent, so it wasn't a major issue for me."

This upcoming bout marks Fundora's first time headlining at the prestigious MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, though it's his third appearance there. Recognizing this significant milestone, Fundora remarked:

"Yes, absolutely. The event itself is huge, a major milestone. Headlining a pay-per-view against a big name like this is a blessing. But I didn't let the rescheduling bother me much; injuries are just a part of the game. Dwelling on such things would negatively impact my mental state, and I want to avoid that."

Sebastian Fundora: Blocking Out Noise, Remaining Champion, and Becoming a Star with Keith Thurman Win

Fundora, known for his calm and soft-spoken demeanor, contrasts sharply with Keith Thurman's more flamboyant and vocal public persona.

As the quiet, defending champion, Fundora was asked if Thurman's outspokenness was a psychological tactic or simply a way to promote the fight. Fundora responded:

"Keith Thurman is simply Keith Thurman. We all know him as a talker. He can certainly back it up, but that's how I remember him growing up – a big talker, shouting ‘one time’ and knocking guys out. It's good promotion for the fight, yes, but I also think it's just his natural attitude. It doesn't really bother me."

"I view him as just another opponent. I was a fan of his, and still am, actually. I believe he's a future Hall of Famer, but all that talk is just noise to me. I'm here as the champion, and I intend to stay that way."

Fundora acknowledged that facing an opponent he admired as a child signifies a significant stage in his career — a point of maturation where he's consistently overcoming elite fighters. When asked about this evolution and his ascent to the next level, Fundora shared:

"Yes, I absolutely believe this fight, specifically, represents a star, even a superstar level. How we perform and win this bout will elevate us in boxing. There's the championship level, which is a peak for many, but then there's the superstar level, where everyone wants to watch you, everyone wants to attend your fights. I think this fight will truly show us where we stand."