Bradley Confirms: If Atlas Wants To Return, I'm Staying With Him

By Ryan Burton

BoxingScene.com and other members of the media recently caught up with former two-division champion Timothy Bradley (33-2-1, 13KOs) to get an update on his career.

The 33-year-old hasn't fought since dropping an unanimous decision to Manny Pacquiao in their trilogy fight this past April.  He has been busy helping coach his son's youth football team and is planning a return to the ring in the first quarter of 2017.

The third fight against Pacquiao was Bradley's second with veteran trainer Teddy Atlas in his corner.  His first fight with Atlas took place last November and resulted in a knockout victory over Brandon Rios. He had previously been trained for his entire career by Joel Diaz - until they had a very public falling out last September.

Bradley was the first fighter that Atlas had trained in several years as he was mostly focused on broadcasting. Prior to his connection with Bradley, Atlas made it clear that he had no desire to train anymore.  There are no plans to disconnect their relationship, with Bradley quickly squashing any rumors that he was going to look for another trainer.

"Yes (Teddy is my trainer). If Teddy wants to come back, that is my guy. Me and Teddy. We're the firemen. I'm staying with Teddy," Bradley stated.

As for who is next, Bradley said that he is keeping his options open.  He is interested in facing former multi-division champion and current super welterweight champion Miguel Cotto and some of the fighters fighting under the Premier Boxing Champions banner.

"I just keep hearing all this talk about Al Haymon and them guys. That is all I hear about. Like everyone is waiting for me to fight one of these fighters so I can open up the gate," said Bradley.

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