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[SPORTS] · United States · 3 sources

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Part of situation: Vergil Ortiz Jr. and Keith Thurman fight negotiations (2 clusters)

Vergil Ortiz Jr. targets December return against Keith Thurman

Vergil Ortiz Jr. Keith Thurman boxing Robert Garcia David Benavidez

Vergil Ortiz Jr. is targeting a return to the ring this December, with talks progressing for a bout against former champion Keith Thurman. The fight is being discussed for the David Benavidez undercard in Arizona, with proposed dates of December 5th or December 12th.

Ortiz’s trainer, Robert Garcia, emphasized that prioritizing activity is essential, as Ortiz will have been inactive for approximately 13 months following his last fight in November 2025. Garcia noted that seeking a more prestigious opponent, such as Jaron “Boots” Ennis, could lead to further delays that push Ortiz’s return into next year.

Keith Thurman indicated that while he has not yet received a formal contract, he feels a full agreement is close. Thurman also commented on the matchup, noting that Ortiz possesses more punching power than Sebastian Fundora.

Entities

David Benavidez · Golden Boy Promotions · Keith Thurman · Robert Garcia · Vergil Ortiz Jr.

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Thurman has not yet received a formal contract for the proposed bout. www.boxing247.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] The proposed dates for the fight are December 5th or December 12th. nosmokeboxing.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Keith Thurman believes a full agreement is close for a fight against Vergil Ortiz Jr. www.boxing247.com
  • [○ 1 SOURCE] Keith Thurman stated that Vergil Ortiz Jr. possesses more punching power than Sebastian Fundora. www.boxing247.com
  • [● 2 SOURCES] Vergil Ortiz Jr. will have been inactive for approximately 13 months following his November 2025 fight against Erickson Lubin. nosmokeboxing.com · www.boxingnews24.com
  • [● 3 SOURCES] The potential Ortiz vs. Thurman fight is being discussed for the David Benavidez undercard in Arizona. nosmokeboxing.com · www.boxingnews24.com · www.boxing247.com
  • [● 2 SOURCES] Trainer Robert Garcia is prioritizing Vergil Ortiz Jr.’s return to the ring over finding a high-prestige opponent. nosmokeboxing.com · www.boxingnews24.com

Sources

Vergil Ortiz Jr Targets Keith Thurman For December Return [nosmokeboxing.com]
Vergil Ortiz Jr. Prioritizes Activity Over Opponent Quality [www.boxingnews24.com]
Keith Thurman Indicates Agreement For Vergil Ortiz Fight [www.boxing247.com]