By Jhonny Gonzalez

As previously reported, WBA junior middleweight champion Miguel Cotto denied the various news articles regarding a deal being reached for a June 9 rematch with Manny Pacquiao. Cotto, and legal adviser Gabriel Peñagaricano, are evaluating their options. Cotto's contract with Top Rank expired at the end of December, making the boxer a free agent.

Negotiations to make a fight between Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather Jr. have fallen through. The door is now open for Cotto to face Pacquiao in June, or Mayweather on May 5th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Cotto and Peñagaricano have not denied their interest in reaching an agreement to face either fighter. Peñagaricano has a very good relationship with Top Rank, and with Mayweather's adviser, Leonard Ellerbe. Cotto's promotional company has a business relationship with Golden Boy Promotions, who work with Mayweather.

"I think we are already seeing quite clearly that these two fighters [Pacquiao and Mayweather] will not fight. The indications are clear as time passes. In the absence of that fight for Pacquiao, as is proper, Miguel Cotto should be considered. But Cotto has become a free agent, and he can choose whoever suits him," Peñagaricano told spokesman.

"I know [Ellerbe] and I have an excellent relationship with him. But it is still premature to say anything. We have to wait and see what happens. Honestly, the doors are open. Miguel, in terms of the date [May 5] has no problem. [And there] no problem with June either [for Pacquiao]. Those choices are there. And this week should clarify things."