A Look at the Welterweight Division: Part One

Boxing throughout its years was led by the Heavyweight division. From Jack Johnson to Mike Tyson, the Heavyweight division was the face of boxing.

Ironically, it’s the little guys who are now carrying the sport of boxing, with the Welterweight division being the new face of boxing.

Therefore, let’s take a look at the current welterweight division, its mainstream stars and possible scenarios in 2010.

The Mainstream Stars

Manny Pacquiao : Not only is he the face of the welterweight division, but he is the face of boxing (although Mayweather will surely argue that).

His recent historical victory against Miguel Cotto has established him as the man to beat in the welterweight division and sets himself up for another legendary matchup, this time against Floyd Mayweather.

What might he do in 2010: Can you believe Pacquiao may have his best year ahead of him if he manages to stage a fight with Mayweather?

That is a huge statement, taking into consideration that Pacquiao has won in seven weight divisions, beating opponents such as Barrera, Morales, Marquez, Oscar de la Hoya, Hatton and Miguel Cotto.

Why will 2010 then be his best year? 2010 can be the best year for him because a win against Mayweather will elevate him as the greatest boxer of this decade and serious consideration as a top-10 all-time great. That is pretty amazing, isn’t?

What if he loses to Mayweather? Well, a defeat would be terrible considering Pacquiao carries the dreams and hopes of his country. Yet, a loss to a fighter of Mayweather’s caliber would be nothing to be ashamed about and he could certainly look for a rematch.

If not, Pacquiao could go down to defend his lineal jr. welterweight title against the likes of Timothy Bradley, Amir Khan, or Devon Alexander (all intriguing matchups). He could also look to end his rivalry with Juan Manuel Marquez.

Other possible scenarios: Believe it or not, there is also the possibility that Pacquiao may go up to chase a world title in the light middleweight division, making it eight divisions Pacquiao would attempt to be champion in.

The most likely opponent seems to be Yuri Foreman. Will the Pac-Man finally lose to the scales or keep on making boxing history?

Floyd Mayweather : Success is the best way to define Mayweather. He thoroughly outclassed the lineal lightweight champion of the world, Juan Manuel Marquez, in vintage fashion and is in talks with a showdown with Pacquiao.

His ego will tell you that he is best pound-for-pound fighter and that he will thoroughly outbox Pacquiao...easier said than done.

What might he do in 2010: Mayweather has won in five weight divisions and defeated opposition such as Corrales, Castillo, Judah, Hatton, Oscar de la Hoya, and recently Marquez.

Impressive, but just like Pacquiao, his best year may be just around the corner.

Defeat Pacquiao and he will regain his p4p crown, will be an all-time great and the best fighter of this decade. It doesn’t get any better for him.

Lose to Pacquiao? I find it difficult to envision Mayweather losing since I’m accustomed to seeing him win all the time. However, a loss to Pacquiao might lure him into retirement. I know it sounds crazy, but I mean what more can Mayweather do?

At this point he is fighting for legacy and wouldn’t want to expose himself into high-risk low-reward fights. Although he may continue, but only if there is a huge payday involved.

Other scenarios: Well lets pretend Mayweather vs. Pacquiao is done some time after March and Mayweather decides to take a tune-up fight. More than likely he could fight the winner of Mosley vs. Berto, but by no means is either man a tune-up fighter and could pose a serious threat to Mayweather's perfect record.

Nevertheless, Mayweather vs. Berto or Mayweather vs. Mosley are both magnificent fights. But until then we can only ponder these possible scenarios.

Shane Mosley : Mosley had a career-defining win against Antonio Margarito. Although an underdog, Mosley fought like the favorite and knocked over the “biggest tower in boxing."

Unfortunately, Mosley never fought again in 2009 and is now set to fight against young and dangerous Andre Berto.

What might he do in 2010: It could be a make or break year for Mosley. He faces an inexperienced fighter in Andre Berto. He will undoubtedly be the favorite but many factors go against Mosley.

He is 38 and will go into the fight with a roughly 53-week layoff. Secondly, Berto possesses incredible speed, power and tenacity proven in his fight against Collazo. However, this may all be irrelevant if Mosley soundly defeats Berto.

So if Mosley gets past Berto, then he will hopefully attempt to get into the sweepstakes of fighting the winner of Mayweather vs. Pacquiao. Now let’s assume he gets that winner and wins.

Well then what a way for Mosley to turn his career and reassert himself as the p4p champ. Simply Incredible! On the other hand, he might be avoided by either Pacquiao or Mayweather and may possibly rematch Cotto in order to avenge his loss.

Final Note: Some scenarios mention above may or may not happen. Just a friendly reminder though, this is boxing and anything can happen. Plus it's fun just to think of all the possibilities. Also, stay tune for Part Two coming soon.

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