“One Time” Keith Thurman 145.5, Mario “El Azteca” Barrios 146.5 in Las Vegas

By Carlos Costa

Former unified welterweight world champion “One Time” Keith Thurman can’t wait for the sound of the 1st bell to fight former super lightweight world champ Mario Barrios at the Michelob ULTRA Arena of the Mandalay Bay Resort and Casino in Sin City Las Vegas, Nevada.

The fight is promoted by Premier Boxing Champions live on FOX PPV.

Keith Thurman weighed-in at 145.5 pounds while “El Azteca” Mario Barrios 146.5.

A former WBA/WBC champ, Thurman reached the top of the sport with memorable victories over Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia putting him years ago on the top of the division.

Thurman’s first loss came against legendary 8-division champion Manny Pacquiao in one of the best fights of 2019.

With a win over the Mexican, the 33-year-old “One Time” look to jump start a second run for the welterweight crown currently held by Crawford, Ugas and Spence.

“It feels great to be back,” days Keith, a native from the Sunshine State, Florida.

“The time is now. It feels natural. I was born and raised in this sport. This is where I belong and I am grateful to be back in this beautiful fight city of Las Vegas,” added Thurman.

“I don’t need to waste punches in this fight. I need to land the cleanest, sharpest shots.

“I see the warrior spirit in “El Azteca” Mario Barrios and I think he is going to push me to fight harder.”

But “El Azteca” has plans of his own.

Fans wonder if In this 12-rounder battle of former world champs, will “One Time” Keith Thurman (29-1, 22 KO’s) still have the eye of the tiger in him?

Will Keith be able to control and overpower slightly taller, 7 years younger Mexican-American “El Azteca” Mario Barrios (26-1, 17 KO’s) tomorrow in Las Vegas (Sunday morning here in Asia)

A defeat might send the still popular 33-year-old Thurman into retirement for good…while an awesome, thrilling, knockout win would likely propel the former Pacquiao fighting partner to a new shot at the welterweight world title; and… if Thurman wins, how would he do in the ring against Crawford, Ugas or Spence?

Let’s find out what “One Time” still have in the tank!