WBC middleweight champion Miguel Cotto?s explosive encounter with popular Saul ?Canelo? Alvarez in another classic Puerto Rico vs Mexico showdown has been described as ?strictly business? by respected boxing writer and television correspondent James Blears of Mexico City.
Reporting on Cotto?s entry into what he referred to as the ?lion?s den of Mexico City, Blears noted that Cotto ?didn't bat an eyelid, sauntering right into the lion's den of Mexico City, promoting his title defense against Saul "Canelo" Alvarez.?
Blears said ?both received a warm welcome at the studios of TV Azteca, deep in the South of Mexico City. Cotto soberly attired, banker style in a pale gray suit and matching silk tie. While Canelo with a black casual jacket, black trousers and a white open necked shirt.?
Both fighters were outwardly calm, sitting well apart but ?their restless, fidgeting latticed hands, which knotted and unknotted, betrayed the simmering tension both guardedly felt. Cotto mostly impassive, occasionally pursing his lips. Canelo, noticeably paler than normal, sitting bolt upright.?
The naturally partisan audience took up promotions Roc Nation's Michael Yoreman's appeal to give The Champion a cheer and a chant. The event was punctuated throughout with cheers for Canelo.
Blears said that Saul, ?smilingly thanked the Mexican fans for their voracious support, as an extra gingerbread inspiration. Yet he readily acknowledged it's going to be a very difficult and hard fight. Stressing that such fights are won in gyms, he said the advice and wisdom of Golden Boy Promotions President and boxing superstar Oscar De La Hoya, will provide vital ingredients, leading to the dividends of victory. And his thoughts are entirely focused upon that coming victory."
Laconic, but quietly confident Miguel was generous, albeit with a back handed compliment. He said: "Canelo is a great fighter, but so am I, and I'm proud of being Puerto Rican."
During the impassive face to face, Cotto casually kept his hands in his trouser pockets. As they broke off their unblinking gaze and shook hands, Canelo gave Cotto, a friendly pat on the left forearm.
Hard fists, no hard feelings...this is strictly business!
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