Canelo Alvarez vs. Miguel Cotto: Expert Predictions For Middleweight Prize Fight

Canelo Alvarez Miguel Cotto — A few active boxers are picking Miguel Cotto to upset Canelo Alvarez. Getty

Canelo Alvarez is favored by oddsmakers to defeat Miguel Cotto on Saturday in Las Vegas, and experts are also leaning towards the Mexican boxer at the 155-pound catch weight. The 25-year-old Alvarez has been given 3/1 odds to defeat the future Hall of Famer, though both fighters have their share of supporters.

Most of the boxing analysts have given the edge to Alvarez. He’s 10 years younger and closer to his prime, and many experts seem to think he’ll outlast Cotto, possibly scoring a knockout in the later rounds.

Many current and former boxers think Cotto will get the win, largely because of his experience. The Puerto Rican boxer has stepped in the ring with many of the best fighters of the last decade, and he's won his last three bouts in dominant fashion.

“I’m going against the grain and picking Cotto,” middleweight Andy Lee said via Ring TV. “He’s boxing clever at the moment and I see him using his experience to box around Canelo. At his best, Miguel has excellent rhythm and I believe he can use that to frustrate Alvarez who I expect will come looking to take him out with one spectacular punch. Cotto on points.”

Cotto has looked great since teaming up with trainer Freddie Roach, and his career is far from finished at 35 years old. But his recent competition leaves a lot to be desired. Cotto was a heavy favorite over both Delvin Rodriguez and Daniel Geale, and he had his way with a banged up Sergio Martinez, who was forced to retire after their fight.

Alvarez’s only defeat came at the hands of Floyd Mayweather, who is undefeated and beat Cotto, as well. Since losing to Mayweather, Alvarez has won three fights, including two by knockout. He beat Erislandy Lara, though it was a close split decision. Alvarez is one of boxing’s rising stars, but he doesn’t have much experience against elite fighters.

Below is a look at expert predictions for the much-anticipated middleweight prize fight. Of the 20 writers, boxers, and analysts, 13 took Alvarez, and seven took Cotto.

Tim Dahlberg, Associated Press: Alvarez

Lyle Fitzsimmons, CBS Sports: Alvarez

George Foreman, retired boxer: Alvarez

Kevin Iole, Yahoo Sports: Alvarez

Andy Lee, boxer: Cotto

Sugay Ray Leonard, retired boxer: Cotto

Lennox Lewis, retired boxer: Cotto

Tom Loeffler, promoter: Alvarez

Roger Mayweather, trainer: Alvarez

Larry Merchant, boxing analyst: Alvarez

Shane Mosley, boxer: Cotto

Manny Pacquiao, boxer: Cotto