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Since escaping from defeat against DeMarcus Corley, it is clear that Miguel Cotto has lost something as a fighter that he may never retrieve. Before the events of the Corley fight, master-plans were afoot to elevate Cotto into the highest echelons of world boxing. He was to become one of boxing’s new superstars, and though reluctant to assume the role himself, an obvious heir to Felix Trinidad. However, Cotto is damaged goods, and in being so, he places Top Rank, his promoters, in a difficult position to which they have responded with the implementation of a damage control strategy to subdue the complete exposure of Cotto’s frailties, thus prolonging his earning potential.
Cotto remained a champion on that infamous night in Puerto Rico by the grace of an inept referee and now enjoys protection through the art of matchmaking. The strategy began by matching Cotto with former amateur rival Mohamad Abdulaev after the Corley fight. The fight’s promotion hinged upon the pre-professional victory that Abdulaev inflicted upon Cotto. Elements such as these make for interesting side notes, but not the basis of an entire promotion. In truth, Abdulaev turned professional late, was once-beaten at the time of the Cotto fight and showed conviction only in conceding defeat in the ninth round.
Ricardo Torres was meant as an extension of the strategy, but the Colombian failed to interpret his role in the proceedings and almost made himself an overnight star before Cotto managed to rally towards a seventh round stoppage win. Clearly, the option to move things forward with Cotto was no longer available. Enter Gianluca Branco. Last Saturday night, Branco appeared every bit of what he was: a thirty-five-year-old European level boxer, lucky to be fighting for a title while lacking the will or the firepower to make good on the opportunity. A specimen heaven-sent as the next component in the Miguel Cotto preservation cause. [details]
Cotto remained a champion on that infamous night in Puerto Rico by the grace of an inept referee and now enjoys protection through the art of matchmaking. The strategy began by matching Cotto with former amateur rival Mohamad Abdulaev after the Corley fight. The fight’s promotion hinged upon the pre-professional victory that Abdulaev inflicted upon Cotto. Elements such as these make for interesting side notes, but not the basis of an entire promotion. In truth, Abdulaev turned professional late, was once-beaten at the time of the Cotto fight and showed conviction only in conceding defeat in the ninth round.
Ricardo Torres was meant as an extension of the strategy, but the Colombian failed to interpret his role in the proceedings and almost made himself an overnight star before Cotto managed to rally towards a seventh round stoppage win. Clearly, the option to move things forward with Cotto was no longer available. Enter Gianluca Branco. Last Saturday night, Branco appeared every bit of what he was: a thirty-five-year-old European level boxer, lucky to be fighting for a title while lacking the will or the firepower to make good on the opportunity. A specimen heaven-sent as the next component in the Miguel Cotto preservation cause. [details]
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