Andre Berto Targets Danny Garcia: I Want To Make a Statement!

By Edward Chaykovsky

Former welterweight world champion Andre Berto (31-4, 24 KOs) is eager to reclaim his old title, which is currently held by undefeated champion Danny Garcia (32-0, 18 KOs).

Berto held the WBC welterweight crown in 2011, when he was upset by Victor Ortiz in a Fight of The Year battle. Last month, Berto finally avenged that loss with a fourth round stoppage of Ortiz.

It was Berto's first bout since losing a twelve round decision to Floyd Mayweather Jr. last September in the pound-for-pound king's retirement fight.

Garcia moved up to the welterweight division earlier this year and won a twelve round decision over former champion Robert Guerrero to capture the vacant WBC welterweight crown. The belt had been vacated by Mayweather following his win over Berto.

“I think that would be a great fight for Danny, and a great statement for me to get that third title,” said Berto to Premier Boxing Champions. “I can punch, I have speed and, of course, he can punch as well, and he’s undefeated. I would force him to answer a lot of questions when it comes to who he is and show him some fortitude he hasn’t experienced."

Berto feels energized with the victory over Ortiz. He also wants to avenge his defeats to Guerrero and Jesus Soto Karass. Before he gets himself in the ring with either of those fighters, he wants to get his hands on Garcia.

“I feel vindicated, like a tremendous weight has been lifted off of my back,” Berto said. “I think I opened a lot of people’s eyes and created a buzz for me out there once again.”

“If it was up to me, I would get Robert Guerrero and Jesus Soto Karass out of there, as well. But right now, I think me and Danny Garcia would be something great for the fans.”