By Mark Vester

Former two-division champion Miguel Cotto does not understand why Manny Pacquiao is refusing to accept Floyd Mayweather Jr's terms for random Olympic-style drug testing to be in place for their March 13 fight. Cotto was stopped by Pacquiao last month in Las Vegas. In a statement sent to BoxingScene.com, Cotto said Pacquiao should agree to the requested tests to eliminate any doubts about his talents. He feels that Pacquiao's refusal to take unrestricted tests will create questions among the public.

"I am in complete awe with Manny's reaction to this matter. He has always been a great athlete and a gentleman.  Why in the world would he require restrictions or conditions for the tests?  It is a golden opportunity for him to dissipate all worldwide rumors surrounding his figure and the use of enhancement drugs.  His refusal to commit to the tests without conditions raises questions," Cotto said. 

Cotto wants Olympic-style drug testing to be in place for every boxing fight and not just Pacquiao-Mayweather. And if Mayweather or anyone else asked Cotto to take those type of tests, he would take them without hesitation.

"Olympic type drug testing is the most efficient tool for the sport to secure fair play.  My recommendation to all boxing authorities in the world is to implement it across the board.  I would agree to it without hesitation or reservations.  It is the only way to ensure that the outcome of a bout is the strict result of conditioning and ability.  To magnify your talent with drugs is repulsive," Cotto said.

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