Boxing News: Timothy Bradley Could Fight Manny Pacquiao, Canelo Alvarez or Keith Thurman Next
Timothy Bradley defeated Brandon Rios in his last fight. "Desert Storm" now holds an impressive record of 33-1-1. Bradley is one of the best middleweight fighters in the world today, but who will he fight next?
According to multiple reports, Bradley could take on Manny Pacquiao for a third time in 2016. "Bradley is certainly now a hot commodity, and he could face Pacquiao again or face Canelo. Money will decide which fight he will take, as far as Bradley is concerned," said Bob Arum.
A rematch against Pacquiao would be interesting, but it may not be the one boxing fans want to see. Pacquiao is one of the best boxers in recent memory, but soon to be 37 years old, he's obviously past his prime. Pacquiao would still like a rematch with Floyd Mayweather, but that's just not going to happen. The Filipino boxing icon has been out because of shoulder surgery.
Pacquiao and Bradley faced off in 2012 with Bradley being awarded a controversial decision victory. Because of the way that fight ended, the two faced off again in 2014 with Pacquiao winning via unanimous decision. Again, a third fight between these two certainly wouldn't be Muhammad Ali vs. Joe Frazier part three. It would be more like Roberto Duran vs. Sugar Ray Leonard part three, which had no real entertainment.
With Mayweather retired and out of the picture, Pacquiao needs to find a new notable opponent to face in 2016. Pacquiao is the No. 1 ranked welterweight fighter in the world today.
If Bradley doesn't want to face Pacquiao again, he could very well take on Canelo Alverez. Alverez has a date with Miguel Cotto on Nov. 21, which could very well have a huge impact on Bradley's future. If the young Mexican fighter can't beat Cotto, Bradley may give Cotto a chance at the WBO Welterweight title.
The only American-born welterweight fighter ranked ahead of Bradley is Keith Thurman. What a great fight that would be. Thurman is the most powerful fighter in the welterweight division today, and Bradley has exceptional quickness. Thurman is undefeated in his young career, and a fight between these two would be a must watch event. Thurman is still scheduled to face Shawn Porter in his fight, but if Bradley doesn't want to wait on "One Time" he has other options for 2016.
This summer Bradley was asked about fighting Thurman.
"Man, I will fight anybody. Right now I'm not thinking about Keith Thurman or anybody else. I'm just thinking about recovering. But like I tell you -- I'm a throwback fighter, I'll fight anybody in the sport. Keith Thurman is a phenomenal fighter, an explosive fighter with power in both hands. He's definitely a specimen, but hey, I don't back down. I'll fight the best and I'll continue to fight the best," Bradley said.
One possible option is Danny Garcia. Garcia has been making a good name for himself lately with a perfect record of 31-0. Let's not forget Garcia knocked out Amir Khan in the fourth round back in 2012. Garcia is still just 27 years old, and he wants a big fight with a top contender.
Follow Damon Salvadore on Twitter @DamonSalvadore1
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