Miguel Cotto Leaves Emanuel Steward

Photo by Chris Farina / Top Rank

WBA junior middleweight titlist Miguel Cotto announced today via his website that he will not be trained by Emanuel Steward for his Dec. 3 rematch with Antonio Margarito, and will instead be trained by Pedro Luis Diaz Benitez.

Cotto explains that due to issues with their calendars and other matters, they will not be working together for this fight, but has left the door open to work with Steward in the future. Below is Cotto’s official statement:

My dear fans:

Today I am very happy to announce that my trainer for my December 3rd fight in New York will be legendary Cuban boxing trainer and expert Pedro Luis Díaz Benítez. Pedro Luis is a Doctor in Pedagogical Sciences. He holds a Master’s degree in sports training and a Major in Physical Culture and Sports. He is also specialized in boxing training’s planning and control. He was a professor and investigator for the University of Sports in Cuba. He has also worked with and trained several Olympic Gold Medalists and professional world champions.

I met Pedro Luis as an amateur several years ago and had the opportunity to share time with him in several international competitions. I was instantly amazed as to the vast boxing’s technique and conditioning knowledge that he transmitted to his fighters. I feel that together with Phil, Pedro Luis is a perfect fit to bring my best potential for my next fight in December and lead me to victory!

I want to take this opportunity to express my wholehearted gratitude to Emanuel Steward, who I consider a friend and mentor. Because of calendar conflicts and other matters, we were unable to work together for this next fight. He is one of the best trainers I have ever met in boxing, and I will be forever appreciative for the two fights we worked together. We have both kept the doors open to maybe join forces in the future if the circumstances and timing are adequate.

Now I will focus on my training camp! I feel happy and thrilled as ever to commenced preparing for December. I will be ready and will win the fight for all of you.

Cordially,

Miguel A. Cotto