If there were any concerns about Keith Thurman’s motivation ahead of his planned comeback this week, they would have been put to bed by the intensity the American has displayed whenever in the company of his opponent, Brock Jarvis. 

An intense character at the best of times, there is a sense that Thurman required an opponent like Jarvis if only to ensure that he was as sharp as he can hope to be when they finally meet. Otherwise, had the fight been of the more low-key variety, there was always the possibility and indeed danger that a fighter like Thurman, now 36 and returning to the ring after three years away, could find motivation hard to come by when it is needed most. 

As it happens, Thurman, 30-1 (22), has discovered in Jarvis, 22-1 (20), an opponent with whom he has just the right amount of needle. 

The pair will fight on Wednesday, March 12, in a 10-rounder, but have almost come to blows at numerous points during the build up to the fight. Last week, for example, both engaged in a fiery exchange at the open workouts, during which Thurman suggested he was happy to get the fight going there and then, a week ahead of schedule. Jarvis, for his part, called the former world champion “pathetic”. 

In quieter, less stressful moments, Thurman has been more reasonable, almost philosophical. He knows what this comeback means to him at the age of 36 and he knows, too, what he must produce at Sydney’s Hordern Pavilion on Wednesday if he is to reignite the interest of fans and key figures in a world he left behind. 

“If I want to have eyes on me and I want to pop up on everyone’s [social media] feed, I think a terrific knockout does that,” said Thurman during Thursday’s media workout. “I’m ready to fight at 36. The definition of boxing is to ‘hit and not get hit,’ and after five years, that philosophy has not changed. I’m here to showcase my skills and my talent.”

Although there will be plenty at stake for Thurman this week, the same can also be said for Jarvis, who was stopped inside a round by Liam Paro back in October 2022. Since then, Jarvis, 27, has fought twice, beating Adrian Rodriguez and Marlon Paniamogan in routine fights, and appears to have regained some of his shattered confidence. However, for Jarvis, this fight against Thurman will of course represent yet another step up in class, regardless of how long Thurman has been away. 

“He has a great opportunity now, stepping into the ring with a two-time world champion,” Thurman said at Monday’s final pre-fight press conference. “But last time he was in the ring with a champion [Paro], he got knocked out. 

“Now he wants to redeem himself, and there’s no better way to do it than on March 12. But I’m sorry, Brock – this is my comeback, not your redemption.”