Cotto Looks To Revive His Career In Underdog Role Against Pacquiao

Sports News - November 11th, 2009 - Written by Scott

A little over a year ago, Miquel Cotto was considered on of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world. He was undefeated heading into his fight with Antonio Margarito in July of 2008 and was the WBA welterweight champion. Promoters were even eyeing a bout with undefeated Floyd Mayweather Jr. All of this recognition came to a quick end as Margarito handed Cotto a devastating beating, one so bad that his trainers threw in the towel in the 11th round. Now, Cotto will try to regain his popularity as he faces Manny Pacquiao on Saturday in Las Vegas.

Cotto (34-1, 27 KO's) was hospitalized following his fight with Margarito and did not box again for seven months. In June, he won a split decision over Joshua Clottey, but once again suffered a severe cut that led to non-stop bleeding for the remainder of the fight. Now, critics say he suffers from cuts to easily and will have to avoid the speed and power that Pacquiao will bring to the ring on Saturday. Joe Santiago, Cotto's trainer, says his cut has fully healed and he will be ready for the fight.

"We were very lucky on the night of the fight that we had two plastic surgeons there at the Garden, and they were able to do their job … and we have not seen anything at all that has been wrong with his cut," Santiago said in a conference call with reporters this week according to USA Today. "We've had no issues with it, and I don't think it will be an issue in the fight."

Pacquiao comes into the fight with a 49-3-2 record. In his last two fights, he has defeated Oscar De La Hoya and Ricky Haton. Pacquiao has been training in his home country of the Philippines where distractions have come into play. The country has suffered with flooding and typhoons and the 30 yr old fighter has been lending his hand where needed. Despite this, he has managed to keep his focus not only on his country, but his preparation for Cotto as well. There is alot riding on this fight as a win by Pacquiao could possibly set up a fight with Mayweather Jr. sometime next year.

Despite the size advantage held by Cotto, Pacquiao comes into to the fight as the favorite according to the Boxing Betting Odds, provided by Betus sportsbook. Betus has Pacquiao odds set at -300 and Cotto at +220. Santiago believes, however, Cotto comes in with a little more to prove and will prevail.

"A lot of people are picking Pacquiao," Santiago said. "Miguel has a little extra because the people don't think he can win. We know he can, and he knows he can, but he will have to show everyone what he is capable of doing against this type of opponent. He will come out with a little more fire."

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