There's no doubt that Martinez from 2009 and earlier would have beaten Cotto.
I don't think people realize that Martinez was a real late bloomer coming in. Back then he had no amateur background but was a real physical talent that helped him box as a pro. No promoter wanted him while he was still active and young so he was forced to fight nobodies in Argentina and Spain. In a way, it was a wasted opportunity for them to not take notice of Martinez while he was still in his physical peak. One could imagine how it would have been if Martinez was recognized while he was in his 20's. He would have been a real superstar, with his looks and entertaining style.
It's a shame that he was in his late 30's when he finally got the recognition he deserved. By the time he iced Williams and became the MW king he was already declining physically due to his age and his style that relied heavily on speed and reflexes. I only wish that they saw his talent a lot sooner.
With all that said, he still made a HOF worthy career and people can now see him as a great fighter. I say it's time for him to retire while he's still healthy.
I don't think people realize that Martinez was a real late bloomer coming in. Back then he had no amateur background but was a real physical talent that helped him box as a pro. No promoter wanted him while he was still active and young so he was forced to fight nobodies in Argentina and Spain. In a way, it was a wasted opportunity for them to not take notice of Martinez while he was still in his physical peak. One could imagine how it would have been if Martinez was recognized while he was in his 20's. He would have been a real superstar, with his looks and entertaining style.
It's a shame that he was in his late 30's when he finally got the recognition he deserved. By the time he iced Williams and became the MW king he was already declining physically due to his age and his style that relied heavily on speed and reflexes. I only wish that they saw his talent a lot sooner.
With all that said, he still made a HOF worthy career and people can now see him as a great fighter. I say it's time for him to retire while he's still healthy.
Comment