Keith Thurman
It was announced on February 17, that WBA welterweight champion Keith Thurman (26–0 (1), 22 KOs) would put his title on the line against Porter on March 12, 2016 at the Mohegan Sun Casino in Uncasville, Connecticut. On February 23, Thurman's promoter said he had been forced to postpone his upcoming fight with Porter after being injured in a car accident. Lou DiBella had insisted the injury is not serious or career threatening, but admits the American is lucky to have escaped major injury. Thurman had not been cleared to resume training by his doctors and is expected to be on the sidelines for between four and six weeks. Porter announced that his rescheduled world title clash against Thurman will take place on June 25 at the Barclays Center. The World Boxing Association has ordered the winner of the Thurman and Porter to face interim WBA Welterweight champion David Avanesyan (22–1–1, 11 KOs), who beat #3 WBA Shane Mosley (49–10–1, 41 KOs) on May 28.