One of boxing's deepest divisions, welterweight has the opportunity to provide boxing fans with a number of intriguing clashes.
With consistent discussions on who should make the top spot, DAZN takes a look at the best welterweight has to offer and ranks the top five fighters.
1. Terence Crawford
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The WBO ruler enhanced his credentials last November when forcing a late stoppage over former world champion, Shawn Porter. Disputes remain over whether Crawford or Errol Spence should be number one, but the Nebraskan’s emphatic win over Porter is hard to ignore. Hopefully, a fight between the pair in the near future can settle the discussion once and for all.
2. Errol Spence
Ryan Hafey / Premier Boxing Champions
After Crawford impressed against Shawn Porter, it was Errol Spence's turn to display his credentials aand he didn't let anyone down as he scored a late stoppage over Yordenis Ugas. The Texan had to overcome a few tense moment, but his class eventually told as his relentless work slowed the Cuban down. There's only one fight to make at 147lbs and the winner will be the true number one without any debate.
3. Yordenis Ugas
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Although falling short against Errol Spence in April, Yordenis possesses enough to maintain a solid number on the list. His 2021 win over Manny Pacquiao demonstrated his ability, and although no longer world champion after losing to Spence, Ugas will fancy his chances of becoming a ruler at welterweight again.
4. Keith Thurman
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Disappearing off radar for over two and a half years, Keith Thurman’s return earlier this year was a boost for the welterweight division. His 2019 loss to Manny Pacquaio was a difficult blow to endure but wins over Shawn Porter and Danny Garcia ensure that Thurman remains in a decent position.
5. Vergil Ortiz Jr
Tom Hogan
One of boxing’s emerging talents, but one who should be competing for world titles in no time. Vergil Ortiz Jr has been brought along nicely by Golden Boy and his recently postponed bout with Michael McKinson has not dampened people’s expectations of him. Emphatic wins over Maurice Hooker and Egidijus Kavaliauskas