5 – Andy Lee
The Irishman is an outside shot, but makes for an interesting proposition. Both Cotto and Lee find themselves at similar stages in their careers. Both are coming off the back of losing their respective world titles and both are recognised names in within the US. Lee is no stranger to the big stage, having shared the ring with Peter Quillin, Brain Vera and Julio Cesar Chavez Jnr. A showdown with Miguel Cotto could generate huge revenue, and would undoubtedly make for an exciting clash of styles. Madison Square Garden would be packed with Irish and Puerto Rican fans.
4 – Ruslan Provodnikov
This mouth-watering matchup is a boxing fan’s dream. Two come-forward fighters with high KO percentages. Sure to attract viewers. But it’s hard to look past the ongoing lawsuit wedged between them. Banner Promotions [who represent Provodnikov] and RocNation [Cotto] are currently entwined in a legal tort over unbeaten super-welter star Demetrius Andrade. RocNation have been accused of intentionally interfering with Banner’s exclusive agreement with Andrade. Boxing politics that make Cotto v Provodnikov a hard situation to envisage happening.
3 – Liam Smith
Having already voiced his intentions of facing the Puerto Rican, ‘Beefy’ is a viable option. In his last few contests Cotto has been fighting at catchweights below 160lbs, so weight wouldn’t be an issue for the WBO super-welter champ. Speaking to Boxing News last week, the Merseysider stated: “I don’t know who Cotto wants to fight but I’m hearing Freddie Roach wants an easier opponent for him, I don’t think Roach wants him to fight me,” He added. “From his [Cotto’s] point of view, can he get up for it again?”
2 – Erislandy Lara
The slippery Cuban is the best super-welterweight on the planet and would offer Cotto a chance at once again ruling that division. Lara also holds the WBA world title, which would sweeten the deal for the Puerto Rican icon. With no fight lined up, Lara is available and willing. Having been edged out by Canelo in 2014, Erislandy is eager to secure another big fight. Cotto may elect to face a different type of opponent, however. Southpaw Lara is a defensive wizard and would give Miguel the same problems Floyd Mayweather and Austin Trout did.
1 – Juan Manuel Marquez
The most rousing choice. A super-fight between two future hall of famers. Marquez hasn’t fought since his decision win over Mike Alvarado in May 2014, but the Mexican intends to return to the ring this year. And it’s the fight that Cotto’s trainer, Freddie Roach, wants most. Speaking to Boxing News in January he said: “I’d like to see him fight Marquez and his team seemed to like the idea,” he added. “I don’t know if it will go anywhere but it might. That would probably be at 147lbs, I think we can still make that weight. I don’t think Miguel will go any lower than that. 147 to 150lbs would be good.”
