Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
WBN Editor
‘Junito’ pressing on with world title challenge
Miguel Cotto is focusing on becoming a world champion for
the fifth time on December 1 when the Puerto Rican fighting legend tackles WBA
title holder Austin Trout for his old belt at Madison Square Garden in New
York.
The 31 year-old, who gave Floyd Mayweather something to
think about in his last fight in May, was rumoured to be close to a rematch
with Manny Pacquiao for the date, but told WBN that reports the fight was in
deep negotiation were wide of the mark.
“It wasn't that close as everybody thinks. They made a
proposal that we did not agree,” Cotto clarified to World Boxing News.
When asked if the two could still meet in the near future,
he added: “Of course, I have always been open to the big names and challenges
in my career. I am open to fighting Manny in 2013 if we can agree on terms.”
New Mexico’s Trout, 26, now stands in the rugged former
champion’s way as he bids to claim yet another world belt and Cotto explained that
the American fighter’s unblemished record was a major factor in choosing his
next opponent.
“Trout is an undefeated super welterweight champion and is a
challenge for me to become a world champion again,” stated Cotto. “He is a
solid champion.”
Cotto also revealed that reports he was mulling over a move
up to 160lbs had substance and WBO middleweight champion Hassan N’Dam N’Jikam did
make a brief appearance on his shortlist.
“We considered it as I am willing to become the first Puerto
Rican champion in four divisions. But for now though our focus is Trout and I
will sit down with my trainer and analyze his style and will train only for
him.”
Pound for pound king Floyd Mayweather Jr. was also linked to a rematch with Cotto on
his release from a two-month prison stint and ‘Junito’ is more than willing to
sign up for a return with ‘Money’ after an entertaining twelve-rounder earlier
this year.
“If we can agree on terms why not?” questioned Cotto before
commenting on whether rivals Mayweather and Pacquiao will ever agree to face each
other after years of broken negotiations and demands.
“They only have to sit down and make the fight
happen if they really want to, he added.”