Boxing’s 154-pound division is a whirlwind of uncertainty and talent. Jermell Charlo, the lineal champ, hasn’t fought since 2022 and appears focused on challenges outside his weight class. Terence “Bud” Crawford, long viewed as a powerhouse at 154, seems locked in on an upcoming showdown two divisions higher. Errol Spence Jr. has been absent from the ring for 20 months. Meanwhile, Keith Thurman’s reintroduction to junior middleweight after a lengthy layoff only adds to the intrigue.
In the midst of this chaos stands Sebastian “The Towering Inferno” Fundora, a 6’5½” southpaw who loves trading on the inside. He faces Chordale Booker on Saturday in a PBC-on-Prime main event where he’s heavily favored. If he wins, and if co-featured contender Jesus Ramos Jr. does the same, both men will stay on track for possible matchups against a wide-open field of veterans, prime contenders, and emerging prospects.
Fundora’s uniqueness in both height and style has fans and analysts alike dreaming of potential showdowns. Errol Spence Jr. is a popular fantasy pairing, while others see a crackling sequel with Tim Tszyu or a belt-unifying clash with Bakhram Murtazaliev. And let’s not forget the looming threat of Vergil Ortiz Jr., who, despite recent challenges, has become one of the most tested and dangerous fighters at 154.
When the smoke clears, every top junior middleweight will have a number of intriguing paths forward, including battles with next-generation threats like Yoenis Tellez and Charles Conwell. Bud Crawford may be chasing bigger paydays at super middle, but nobody can claim a shortage of must-see fights at 154. If anything, the door is wide open for a new king - and Fundora may stand taller than anyone else waiting to claim the throne.
Get to know more about Fundora's career here.
Image Credit: PBC