This is one of those fight picks (Keith Thurman, 24-0, 21 KO’s) that deserves extra-special attention. If I bet on boxing, it is a fight in which I would be tempted to go with the underdog (Robert Guerrero, 32-2-1, 18 KO’s). But luckily for me, since I do not bet on the sport, I am free from “prediction stress.”
I’ve already given away who I think is going to win the fight, Keith “One Time” Thurman, but I will briefly explain why and how.
Why I Think Thurman Will Defeat Guerrero
Age
I know age is nothing but a number, especially these days, when you look at the exploits of living ring legends like Bernard Hopkins (50), Floyd Mayweather (37) and Manny Pacquiao (36) still fighting at high levels.
Although Robert Guerrero (31) is a very good fighter who hasn’t fought as long as the “big three” mentioned above, he has a lot of mileage on those gloves. He has fought over 230 rounds while Thurman, has fought a little over 90 rounds. As a result, I think Thurman will be the liver and fresher fighter when they face off on March 7.
Power
Not only is youth on Thurman’s side in this fight, but he has a decided power edge, knocking out 84% of his opponents while Guerreo has only stopped 49% of his.
Don’t expect this whopping difference to account for a Thurman wipeout of Guerrero. I do not think that Guerrero will win but I’d be very surprised to see the Ghost disappear completely.
How Will Thurman Defeat Guererro?
Keith Thurman’s combination of punching power and youthful exuberance will sway the judges because of the impact of his blows as well as the activity in his busy hands and legs.
The Prediction
Thurman will defeat Guerrero via an entertaining, 12-round unanimous decision in this welterweight title scrap.