It’s unlikely to happen, given that Cotto has announced he will retire at the end of this year and already has his December fight against Sadam Ali scheduled. But Liam Smith won an eliminator for the WBO title Cotto holds and this would be the ideal super-fight for the Liverpudlian.
Liam Smith has already boxed the Mexican superstar. The result was conclusive, Canelo finished him with a (literally) breath-taking body shot. But as well as relishing his step up to the highest level in the sport, it was frustrating for Smith who felt a cut hampered his preparations, stopping him from sparring and therefore boxing to the best of his ability.
3. Kell Brook
Brook lost his IBF welterweight title earlier this year but he remains a big name in UK boxing. He was big for the weight and a move up to 154lbs. Liam Smith would be a high profile, all British showdown.
4. Erislandy Lara
The Cuban is the best super-welterweight in the world. He has remained unbeaten since a close bout with Canelo Alvarez in 2014 and a bout with Lara would give Smith the chance to go for the number one spot in the division.
The unbeaten American (unlike Lara above) has an exciting style. He most recently defended his IBF world title against Austin Trout and him versus Liam Smith would certainly be a good contest to watch.
