By Coach Tim Walker – In a brief but highly anticipated statement Bob Arum (Top Rank Promotions) told the media “Both sides have agreed to the terms,” referring to the super fight between pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao and current WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto. According to Arum all that is left is sending out formal contracts to both sides for signatures. The November 14 showdown was proceeded by much speculation from boxing writers, columnist and fans all over the world since it was hinted at back in June by Pacquiao. The match up, now known to be contracted at 145 pounds, will be broadcast by HBO pay per view and held at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, NV.
Top Rank would not disclose terms but did confirm a catch weight of 145 pounds, two pounds below the limit for welterweights. Pacquiao wanted Cotto to get down to 143 pounds and recently hinted at fighting Shane Mosley if Cotto did not agree to go down to his preferred weight limits. Cotto held his ground and would not budge on the weight issue. Many, including this writer, felt that the two pounds positioned the two fighters well away from being close to an agreement but ultimately Pacquiao conceded the poundage after what is being reported as a very lucrative phone call from Arum..
Now the questions begin. Can Cotto make it to 145 and be strong? Will the two pounds drain Cotto? Does Pacquiao have the power to deal with a true in his prime welterweight? Was the Oscar De La Hoya victory a fluke for Pacquiao and has he bitten off more than he can chew? These questions I’m sure will prove to be only the tip of the iceberg. With an excellent under-card this could well go down as one of the biggest events in boxing history. Sports history for that matter.
For questions or comments please contact Coach Tim Walker at tpwalker@hotmail.com.