By Mark Vester
Former two-division champion Miguel Cotto (32-1, 26KOs) will start his training camp next week, preparing for his February return to the ring. Cotto is trying to put himself back in position for a June rematch with Antonio Margarito, the man who knocked him out in July and took his WBA welterweight title.
"Starting next week, training camp will be in full swing, We are already doing some work in the gym. Talks for an opponent are advanced, but some details of the negotiations are not done," Cotto said to El Nuevo Dia.
Yesterday, WBO president Francisco "Paco" Valcarcel, told the paper that he was advised that a deal had been reached for Cotto to face Michael Jennings (33-1, 16KOs) of the UK for the vacant WBO welterweight title. Cotto says that he never saw Jennings fight and doesn't know a thing about the boxer.
"I don't know anything about Jennings," Cotto said. "The team will take charge and study him. I've had a good rest and I was able to relax and ease my mind. I also enjoyed the time with my family, now I'll be able to be more focused on my training."
Cotto's legal advisor, Gabriel Penagaricano, says that Cotto's return appears to be heading to Febuary 21, and not February 14 as widely reported. The fight will take place in Puerto Rico or Atlantic City. He says that a deal to fight Jennings is not complete and negotiations are ongoing.
"It's still being negotiated with several possible opponents. The only thing I know is that everything indicates that February 21 will be the date in Puerto Rico or Atlantic City," Penagaricano said.
Some of the other names being mentioned if the Jennings fight falls through, are Kermit Cintron and Jesus Soto Karass.
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