By Ben Jacobs

With reports of a super fight between Miguel Cotto and Saúl 'Canelo' Álvarez close to being finalized, few people in the sport are in a better position to make a prediction on the outcome as Austin Trout. The 29-year-old defeated Cotto by unanimous decision in December 2012 and lost a close fight to 'Canelo' in April 2013.

"Cotto has looked very good in the last year, 'Canelo' is younger and in my opinion stronger but doesn't have the experience Cotto does. This will be very interesting to see how it plays out. I think 'Canelo' is going to win, based on their abilities and physical attributes. But boxing is 90% mental and Cotto will bring experience which is the key ingredient to his success. 'Canelo' is a harder puncher."

Some observers have been impressed with Cotto's renaissance under Freddie Roach while others have been skeptical about his opposition's condition and ability.

"Boxing fans see what they want, they love Cotto, he's an icon," explained Austin.

"He fought a broken down Martínez, beat him and he looks like the greatest of all time. People don't give me credit for the Cotto win, they say he was out of shape, fat, bla bla bla. I think he looked great against Martínez but Martínez was disabled. He looked great against Daniel Geale but arguably Geale could have been drained from the catchweight. That doesn't matter to some fans. I think we should just give credit when it's due. He looked good in both fights. Focus on the positive instead of the negative. I hope he beats Canelo, that would be great for me."