did the absence of Evangelista Cotto have any effect against Clottey?

I think yes. He just wasn't as sharp as before. Of course it can't be said for sure, because a huge gash above ur eye also messes with the gameplan and focus. but he just didn't seem as sharp as always. He wasn't really the terminator as usual either. That might've had to do with the fact that Clottey is also a big puncher. But i think if he's gonna fight Pacquiao, or even Mosley and Margo, he may need Evangelista. Everyone said he mostly trained himself, but maybe it's also a mental thing, moe than the obvious strategic plus Evangelista brings to the corner.