Mayweather vs Cotto: Why Saul Alvarez Should Be Miguel Cotto's Next Opponent

Ideally, the next fight for Floyd Mayweather will be Manny Pacquiao. We've been saying that since the beginning of time, it seems.

But even if that fight doesn't happen, the ideal fight for Saul Alvarez—and boxing fans—is against Miguel Cotto, not Money May.

Alvarez isn't quite ready to step in the ring with Mayweather just yet. But a bout with Cotto is perfect and would certainly be an entertaining affair.

Canelo is one of boxing's bright young stars, and he may find his way into the ring with Mayweather in the future. The 22-year-old Mexican fighter is the youngest champion in the world, and he looked dominant in retaining his WBC super welterweight title against Shane Mosley on Saturday night.

But Cotto would provide an excellent litmus test for Alvarez's status as an elite fighter.

Plus, this bout just seems like it would be fun. I could see this one developing into quite the slug-fest, an exciting affair that would test the chin and stamina of each fighter.

And c'mon, a Mexico vs. Puerto Rico clash would add some great fuel to the fire.

And finally, who doesn't love a bout between an up-and-coming superstar and a wily old veteran that can still hang in the ring? Who doesn't love a good generational clash?

Ultimately, I would give a slight edge to Alvarez in this one. He's not the consummate professional in the ring that Cotto is quite yet, but his defense and speed would serve him well against the fighter that just gave Floyd Mayweather his toughest test in years.

Alvarez isn't ready for Mayweather, but he deserves an elite opponent the next time he hits the ring. A bout with Cotto makes the most sense to me.

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