Within the past two weeks, it seems that talks between the Cotto and Canelo camps have gone from hot to cold. What initially appeared to be on the brink of getting done has suddenly presented a reality which boast the polar opposite. Last week, Oscar De la Hoya said that he and Canelo had signed the deal, and were simply waiting on Team Cotto.
Speaking under the condition of anonymity, one source close to Cotto made it very clear that this “process” is not quite a done deal. When asked specifically, the source stated “while Canelo is the fight we want, we’re also cognizant of the fact that we do have options; most which will listen more and dictate less”.
He went on to confirm that both Mayweather, Bradley, and another unnamed opponent are in fact under consideration, and that the final decision “will be what Cotto wants…not anyone else”.
From the firm tone detected, it would appear that the offer presented by Goldenboy Promotions doesn’t quite give Cotto the A-side angle he feels he deserves. Timothy Bradley, while not as attractive as an option, would certainly have no qualms with a role on the B-side of the promotion, and has quietly made it known that he would be open to a fight in New York City.
While this option is less lucrative financially for Cotto, it does give him a chance to potentially add a name to his resume that was credited with defeating his prior conqueror (Pacquiao).
The Mayweather option would entail not only more money, but historical implications as well, as many speculate the fight would take place for the middleweight title, giving Mayweather a shot at grabbing another strap in a new weight division. A fight between he and Pacquaio would be the world’s preference, but those negotiations are said to have hit a snag as well.
Recent rumors have hinted at the possibility of Mayweather considering a 4th of July extravaganza if forced to step away from Cinco de Mayo. If true, that would signal the end of his “Mayweather in May” tradition.
For now, it’s all speculation, but nothing will be known or decided until Cotto makes a move. If he concedes and decides to take the Canelo fight on Cinco de Mayo, fight fans can expect all the other chips to land where they may shortly after. Stay tuned.
(Vivek “Vito” Wallace can be reached at 954.770.9807. He can also be reached at Twitter (@lefthooklounge1), Instagram (ViveksView) and Facebook).
