Sebastian Fundora refuted Keith Thurman’s assertion that he suffers from PTSD due to his 2023 defeat against Brian Mendoza. He emphasized his acquisition of two world titles since that setback and anticipates adding “the legend” ‘One Time’ Thurman (31-1, 23 KOs) to his list of conquered opponents after their match on October 25 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
(Credit: Lina Baker/Premier Boxing Champions)
Fundora (23-1-1, 15 KOs) is set to defend his WBA junior middleweight title against Thurman, the former WBA and WBO welterweight champion.
The Significance of Victory
“He’s a legend and destined for the Hall of Fame. Adding such a name to my record will greatly benefit my future,” Sebastian Fundora conveyed to Fight Hub TV, expressing his eagerness to include Keith Thurman among his defeated adversaries post their October 25 encounter.
However, the prestige Fundora expects from defeating Thurman may be less significant. ‘One Time’ hasn’t been active enough for his name to carry substantial weight on Fundora’s résumé. Additionally, Thurman, at 36, appears to be showing signs of wear, with a history of frequent physical setbacks.
“Overcoming the individual who previously defeated me addresses many concerns,” Fundora stated, responding to claims that Thurman believes he harbors latent PTSD from his seventh-round technical knockout loss to Brian Mendoza on April 8, 2023.
A victory over Mendoza (23-4, 17 KOs) doesn’t offer much value to Fundora, considering Mendoza’s two losses in his last three bouts since their fight. The opportune moment for Sebastian to avenge his loss to Mendoza was in late 2023, while Mendoza’s career was still progressing. He has since been defeated by Tim Tszyu and Serhii Bohachuk. Fundora has more enticing fight options, including Vergil Ortiz Jr, Xander Zayas, Serhii Bohachuk, and Bakhram Murtazaliev.
“I possess a resilient mindset. The PTSD discussion arises because people seek focal points. Individuals tend to dwell on such topics when they resonate with their own experiences. He was defeated by Pacquiao,” Fundora remarked about Thurman. “He has been inactive for a considerable period, citing COVID as the reason.”
Thurman took a three-year hiatus following his 12-round split decision loss to then 40-year-old Manny Pacquiao on July 20, 2019. It remains unclear whether Keith’s break stemmed from emotional distress due to the defeat or from enjoying the substantial financial gains from the fight, amassing millions.
Notably, Thurman took an extended two-year break after receiving a significant payout from his fight against Danny Garcia on March 4, 2017. Whether due to injuries or financial contentment, this pattern appears consistent, as Thurman repeatedly disappears for 2 to 3 years after major fights.
Thurman’s Periods of Inactivity
- February 5, 2022, to March 12, 2025: Roughly 37 months
- July 20, 2019, to February 5, 2022: Approximately 30 months
- February 5, 2022, to March 12, 2025: Roughly 37 months
Psychological Warfare
“Such notions will linger in his thoughts because that is his focus. My concentration remains on October 25th, competing against the former champion, securing victory, and defending my championship title,” Fundora asserted. “Absolutely, I have moved beyond that [loss to Mendoza].”
Thurman’s attempts to unsettle Sebastian, aiming to instill self-doubt, seem evident. Successfully unsettling Fundora prior to the fight might provide him with a crucial advantage. Fundora’s demeanor when questioned about Thurman’s PTSD remarks suggests a degree of agitation.
“I suppose winning those two titles or defending this one doesn’t convince you. I feel the need to prove myself once more against Keith Thurman,” Fundora stated.
Sebastian has emerged victorious in his last three fights since his defeat by Mendoza two years prior. Fundora twice triumphed over Tim Tszyu, who had previously defeated Mendoza by a 12-round unanimous decision on October 15, 2023. Securing three consecutive victories since his loss to Brian illustrates the absence of lingering psychological repercussions from that defeat.
