By Ryan Burton

BoxingScene.com has learned that former welterweight champion Kermit Cintron (32-3, 28KOs) is close to signing a co-promotional deal with Top Rank. Cintron is currently promoted by Lou DiBella. Josh Dubin, who co-manages Cintron along with rap mogul James Prince told Boxingscene, "we have a deal agreed to in principle. We hope to have the deal finalized by the end of the week."

Cintron hasn't fought since losing a 4 round technical decision to Paul Williams last May. He is looking to reestablish himself in the welterweight division. "By going to Top Rank we are looking to campaign at welterweight again," said Dubin.

Top Rank has pound for pound king Manny Pacquiao and is also rumored to have an option on Shane Mosley in the welterweight division. Top Rank's stable is even deeper one division north in the junior middleweight division with the likes of Miguel Cotto, Antonio Margarito, Joshua Clottey, Vanes Martirosyan, Chavez Jr,Yuri Foreman and others.

Dubin didn't rule out a return to 154 pounds. "Kermit can fight anywhere between 147 and 154. Kermit has wanted to fight Miguel Cotto for a long time."

Dubin wanted to make it clear that Lou DiBella is still co-promoting Kermit Cintron. "Lou DiBella believed in Cintron when he was down and delivered Kermit big fights. We just feel that having Lou DiBella and Top Rank along with James Prince and myself managing him is the best team out there. This will definitely help Kermit get the fights at welterweight that he is looking for."

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