Keith Thurman To Display ‘Greater Skills’ As Mario Barrios Pledges More Power In Crossroads Clash

“I’m not less-than after my loss,” said Keith Thurman (pictured), whose clash of former champions with Mario Barrios on Feb. 5 ends his 31-month ring absence since losing his WBA 147-pound title to Manny Pacquiao via one-knockdown, split-decision. “I’ll show greater skills ... fighting Mario Barrios than I did against Manny Pacquaio.” (Ryan Hafey/Premier Boxing Champions)

Former champions Keith Thurman and Mario Barrios are skilled, heavy-handed fighters aiming to knock one another senseless during their Feb. 5. 147-pound clash at Michelob Ultra Arena in Las Vegas.

Not only did each man hit the deck while losing for the first time in his last fight, but each says his weight was a factor against shorter southpaw titleholders who stood 5-foot-5 ½.