By Mark Vester

WBO welterweight champion Miguel Cotto has hit back at his rival, Antonio Margarito. During a recent interview with ESPN Deportes radio, Margarito expressed his desire to land a rematch with Cotto in the first quarter of 2010 - if the Puerto Rican star is able to beat Manny Pacquiao on November 14 in Las Vegas. He said Cotto has to take a rematch to avenge his only loss but the fight will end with yet another defeat. Margarito handed Cotto his only loss with an eleven round stoppage in July 2008.

"I'd give Cotto a rematch. I think that fight will be good. The only loss he has is to me, and if he wants to remove that thorn from his side, then I will give him a second defeat," Margarito said.

Cotto doesn't care what Margarito has to say. He doesn't have any interest in a rematch or helping Margarito get a big payday. He said the Mexican fighter has lost all of his credibility. Margarito had his license revoked in February over a plaster-like substance being discovered in his hand wraps prior to the bout with Shane Mosley on January 24. Margarito is able to apply for a new license at the end of January 2010.

"I don't care about anything Margarito has to say. He lost all of his credibility, benefits and consideration in boxing. When it comes to Miguel Cotto, he will not earn another penny," Cotto told Puerto Rico's AP.

Send News Tips and Comments To Mark Vester @ boxingvester@gmail.com