Cotto-Trout will be broadcast on Showtime

The Dec. 1 showdown between former three-division titleholder Miguel Cotto and undefeated WBA 154-pound beltholder Austin Trout will be broadcast live on Showtime, it was announced during the kick-off press conference for the event in New York City on Monday. 

The anticipated junior middleweight fight will take place at Madison Square Garden, where Cotto has scored the most impressive victories of his career – including decisions over Shane Mosley, Paul Malignaggi and Joshua Clottey and TKO stoppages of Zab Judah and arch rival Antonio Margarito.

“I am really excited to come back to my second home,” said Cotto, who is unbeaten in nine fights in New York City since turning professional in 2001. “Fighting at The Garden is always special for me and a true pleasure. There is something unique in the atmosphere and it means a lot to me every time I fight there because the energy of the fans gives me extra motivation. Austin Trout will be a challenge for me, but I will win my fifth world championship on Dec. 1.”

Although Trout holds the major title in this contest, the New Mexico native gave the Puerto Rican star his due respect during the press conference.

“(Cotto is) a true champion and one of the best fighters of the last 10 years, but I'm the present and future of the sport and this is just the showcase I need to prove to the world that I'm one of the best, pound-for-pound,” said Tout. “I can't wait to fight in such a legendary place like Madison Square Garden; it's every fighter's dream.”

The fight card will be co-promoted by Miguel Cotto Promotions and Golden Boy Promotions.

“There are few events in boxing like a Miguel Cotto fight at Madison Square Garden," said Golden Boy Promotions President Oscar De La Hoya. “The atmosphere is electric and it feels like all of Puerto Rico has come out to support him. Nights like these lift up the sport and I can't wait to be in New York on December 1 to witness this great fight live."

Photo / Al Bello-Getty Images