Spence, 35, from Long Island, New York, hasn't fought since July 2023. That night, Terence 'Bud' Crawford stopped him in the ninth round and became the first undisputed champion at 147lbs in the four-belt era.
There were rumors earlier this year that Spence would return against WBC super welterweight champion Sebastian Fundora. Those plans didn't work out. Now, Spence has teased a comeback and looks in good shape, but hasn't announced any solid plans.
Enter Keith Thurman. The 36-year-old from Florida recently beat Brock Jarvis in Sydney, stopping him in the third round. Now, he's got his sights set on Spence.
In a recent interview with Fight Hub TV, Thurman made it clear he's ready to sign on the dotted line:
"Of course [I'd sign the contract]. Of course, man. See, the thing about Keith Thurman, look at the resume. You think that I wanted to fight that Bondi Beach boy? You think I picked that fight? They gave me the fight. Let me ask the world right here, right now. Who wants to fight Keith Thurman? Don't be scared. Say it loud and say it proud."
This isn't the first time these two have been linked. In November 2022, the WBC ordered Spence to defend his world welterweight title against Thurman. The talks fell through, with Spence saying he'd never give Thurman a shot because of past issues between them.
Will Spence change his mind now? He's looking for a way back to the top after his loss to Crawford. A fight with Thurman, a two-time world champion, could be just what he needs. We'll have to wait and see if Thurman's call-out leads to anything more.