Kermit Cintron Discusses His Career Status, Paul Williams

By Ryan Burton

BoxingScene.com recently spoke to former welterweight champion Kermit Cintron.  The fighter of Puerto Rican descent has been inactive since his loss to knockout loss to Saul "Canelo" Alvarez last November. Cintron said that he has been working out in the gym and enjoying time with his family but that he wants to return to the ring.

"I've been staying in some what shape. I've done a lot of weight training," Cintron stated.  

"I've been helping kids at the boxing gym and spending time with my family. I still want to fight but need to make some changes in order for me to continue.  I'm a promotional free agent right now.  I'm doing good and am enjoying my time with my kids," he continued. 

Like the rest of the boxing community, Cintron was saddened by the news of Paul
Williams' tragic accident that left the former welterweight champion paralyzed from the waist down. Cintron said that even though they were one time adversaries in the ring, he has a great deal of respect for the fighter who is known as The Punisher.
 
"Even though we faced each other in the ring, outside the ring he was a gentleman and I was able to get to know him a bit a couple years back at the Boxing Hall of Fame in upstate New York.  He's a great guy and a great champion," said Cintron.

Cintron also said that he favored Williams against Canelo Alvarez. A week before the accident, Williams reached a deal to face Canelo on September 15th in Las Vegas.  He also wants to send his prayers to the Williams family. 
   
"It's sad to see a true champion go out like that. I was actually looking forward to the Paul Williams and Saul Alvarez fight.  If the fight would have happened I believe PW would have won the fight. My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family. I believe Paul Williams will be champion in other ways," Cintron said in closing.

Send questions or comments to ringsidewriter@gmail.com Follow Ryan on Twitter @ringsidewriter and tune in to The Boxing Lab, Boxingscene's official audio on Tuesdays. The show is hosted by Ernie Gabion, Luis Sandoval and Ryan Burton.