by Rick Reeno
Former welterweight champion Victor Ortiz (29-3, 22KOs) is sitting back and waiting for his manager, Rolando Arellano, to confirm a finalized deal for a rematch with Andre Berto (28-1, 22KOs), which may take place on January 28th on HBO.
Ortiz, 24-years-old, captured his first world title in April, when he snatched Berto's WBC championship with a twelve round unanimous decision. The two boxers traded knockdowns, and a lot of punches, which left a large audience craving for more.
After their memorable battle, their careers took different turns.
Ortiz moved in position for a September showdown with a comebacking Floyd Mayweather Jr. In controversial fashion, Mayweather knocked Ortiz out in four rounds. Berto, however, secured an immediate title opportunity. In an HBO televised main event, Berto banked gold with a fifth round stoppage of Jan Zaveck to capture the IBF championship in September.
During the last two weeks, Berto vacated his title as the IBF ordered him to face his mandatory challenger, Randall Bailey.
With no titles at stake, both boxers are still hungry for a second showdown. The rematch will likely involve a random drug testing protocol. After Ortiz's big win, Berto made a few controversial remarks on his Twitter page, hinting at Ortiz possibly using performance enhancing drugs. Berto would later joke that he was referring to Ortiz's use of Flintstone vitamins.
Ortiz spoke to BoxingScene.com regarding the rematch.
BoxingScene.com: What are your thoughts on Berto giving up his belt to make this rematch happen?
Ortiz: Actually he didn't give it up. They stripped him. They stripped him for it [not fighting Bailey]. It doesn't matter. Actually, I wish he still had the belt so I could take it again.
Is there any anger on your part, regarding those controversial comments made by Berto on Twitter?
Ortiz: Berto could say whatever he wants. I trained really hard for that fight, so I really don't understand why he would say something like that about me. He can be on steroids if he wants. I can even buy them for him. Remember I take Flintstone vitamins. That's what he said. I'll stick to my Flintstone vitamins. I like them better anyway.
BoxingScene.com: Did you watch Berto's last fight? If so, do you believe he improved since the loss?
Ortiz: I wasn't impressed. He was tailor-made for the belt. But at the end of the day you have to give his props [referring to Berto], because he became champion again.
