By Radio Rahim
Rumors have been swirling in the industry that Floyd Mayweather Jr. (47-0, 26KOs) is attempting to secure a rematch with Miguel Cotto (39-4, 32KOs) for May 2nd. The two boxers fought an exciting twelve round contest in 2012, with Mayweather winning a twelve round unanimous decision.
Cotto has recovered from that loss in full force, after demolishing Sergio Martinez in June to capture the WBC middleweight title.
Cotto's trainer, Freddie Roach, has also heard those rumors but he has no idea if the two camps are actually involved in active discussions.
Even if that rumor was true, Roach would rather have Cotto face Mexican superstar Saul "Canelo" Alvarez (44-1-1, 31KOs) on the May date.
"I've heard a little bit of a rumor about that. Miguel Cotto told me 'Freddie, if I was in this kind of shape when I fought Mayweather I would have knocked him out.' I let people know about that and I guess it got back to Mayweather. There was some talk [of that rematch] happening, but right now we are focusing on getting that Canelo Alvarez fight. I think that's a big fight for Miguel right now, that's the best fight for him right now. I have heard about that [Mayweather wanting Cotto], but I don't know how far along the negotiations are [or] if there are any at all," Roach said.
Roach also confirms that Cotto is a network free agent. Mayweather has an exclusive contract with Showtime, but Cotto is apparently not bound to any network.
"I dont think so [that Cotto is contractually bound to HBO]. I think Miguel is free. He is really good at that. He can take the best offer out there. I dont think he has any options with anyone at this point," Roach said.
