16 years ago

Date: 26th July 2008

Venue: MGM Grand, Las Vegas, Nevada

Title: WBA World Welterweight Title

Promoter: Top Rank

Tv: HBO Pay-per-view

Miguel Cotto
( 32 - 0 - 0 )
Weight: 147 lbs

Antonio Margarito
( 36 - 5 - 0 )
Weight: 147 lbs

On Saturday, 26th July 2008, the welterweight division was shaken up by a big upset when Miguel Cotto of Caguas, Puerto Rico, put his WBA World Welterweight Title on the line against Antonio Margarito of Tijuana, Baja California, Mexico. The highly anticipated bout took place at the iconic MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Nevada. Promoted by Top Rank and aired on HBO Pay-per-view, the fight showcased the best of both fighters, with Cotto entering the ring with an undefeated record of 32-0-0 and Margarito boasting an impressive 36-5-0.

The fight began with Cotto taking the early initiative, displaying his boxing skills by frequently landing punches in bunches on Margarito during the early rounds. Utilizing his footwork, Cotto evaded danger and seemed to be in control. However, Margarito's relentless pursuit of Cotto began to pay dividends as the fight progressed.

By the seventh round, Margarito had managed to trap Cotto against the ropes, and with a pair of devastating uppercuts, caused Cotto's nose to bleed. Margarito's relentless pressure continued, and he inflicted further damage on Cotto as the tenth round came to an end.

The eleventh round saw Margarito throw a flurry of punches at the battered and bleeding Cotto, who was pinned against the ropes. A brutal combination from Margarito eventually forced Cotto to his knee. Although Cotto managed to rise, Margarito continued his assault.

With Cotto visibly struggling and going down a second time voluntarily, his corner had seen enough and threw in the towel. The referee, Kenny Bayless, declared Antonio Margarito the winner by TKO at 2:05 in round 11, dethroning Miguel Cotto and claiming the WBA World Welterweight Title.

For his troubles, Cotto was paid $3 million plus a share of the pay-per-view profits.