It's Pacquiao's pick: Cotto or Margarito

MANILA, Philippines - Unless Floyd Mayweather Jr. interferes, Manny Pacquiao
will soon have to choose between Miguel Cotto and Antonio Margarito

“I have to discuss with Manny who he prefers then get everything put together,” said Top Rank chief Bob Arum during Friday’s teleconference, portions of which were relayed to The STAR by top-shelf publicist Fred Sternburg.

Arum said it’s all up to Pacquiao whether he wants to face Cotto a second time or take on Antonio Margarito for the first time. Either way, he gets a crack at an eighth world title in eight different weight divisions.

“It will be Manny’s decision.I do not have a preference.I do not want to prejudice the situation.I want Manny to decide,” said Arum, adding that a deal with either Cotto or Margarito could be made in 10 days.

But Arum made it clear that in that short period, Mayweather can still come up and say he wants the Super Fight with Pacquiao. But that’s as long as Arum can wait because there are certain time limitations to consider.

“He (Pacquiao) is a very intelligent guy and knows what the considerations are and whomever he selects is who we will go after and make the fight,” said Arum, generous enough to give Mayweather until last Friday to decide.

“Because I am dealing with another situation.I am representing a fighter who is also a congressman.He has legislative duties and commitments in the Philippines and I have really short windows to do various aspects of the promotion,” said the legendary promoter.

Read more at: philstar.com