I only ask this question because it was scheduled to happen at one point. Thurman was suppose to face Maidana in his HBO debut, but Maidana pulled out late and was replaced by Orlando Lora. Thurman destroyed Lora, and that was his first mainstream exposure. Had it gone through, who would have won?
I'd give Maidana a real shot. Look at the way Porter was able to push Thurman against the ropes and wail away. If Maidana does that, it's possible he does enough damage to win, euther by decision or KO.
Maidana is weird. Gave Mayweather absolute hell but got shutout by Alexander. If it's the Maidana of the first Mayweather fight I think the relentless pressure would put enough rounds in the bank to get a close but clear decision.
Thurman’s athletic ability should allow him to win most the rounds. And his chin seems dependable enough to take a punch from Maidana.
