Bob Arum, a legendary figure in boxing, recently marked his 94th birthday—an incredible milestone after nearly six decades of shaping the sport's landscape. If you think you know everything about boxing, think again; Arum’s deep well of experience and insight is unmatched, and what he doesn’t know about the fight game simply isn’t worth knowing.
This Harvard-educated former lawyer has collaborated with some of boxing’s most iconic legends—ranging from the charismatic Muhammad Ali to the undefeated Floyd Mayweather—and has been behind the scenes of some of the sport’s most unforgettable moments. For instance, he promoted the legendary three-round slugfest between Marvin Hagler and Thomas Hearns in 1985, a bout that still resonates with fans today.
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, Arum was put on the spot with rapid-fire questions about his career and fighters he’s worked with. One question that stood out was: who does he believe is the most underrated boxer he’s promoted? Without hesitation, Arum’s reply was:
"Miguel Cotto."
Cotto, the resilient Puerto Rican puncher, began his professional journey after competing in the 2000 Olympics, where he was eliminated in his first match by Mukhammadkodir Abdullaev—a loss he later avenged as a pro, five years down the line. Cotto's partnership with Arum lasted over a decade, during which he rose to become a champion in three different weight classes and headlined major fights at Madison Square Garden multiple times. Notably, in 2014, Cotto added a fourth division title to his collection.
After retiring in 2017, Cotto’s career was honored with induction into the International Boxing Hall of Fame five years later. His most memorable victories include bouts against Zab Judah, Shane Mosley, Antonio Margarito, and Sergio Martinez. Known for his aggressive, forward-moving style and relentless body punching, Cotto became a beloved figure among boxing fans, especially in New York, where his fierce performances always garnered excitement.
This story of Cotto’s rise, resilience, and recognition underscores just how much talent and underrated greatness can sometimes go unnoticed—until a seasoned promoter like Arum shines a spotlight on it. But here’s where it gets controversial: do you agree that fighters like Cotto are truly underrated, or are they appreciated enough in their time? And what about the fighters today—are they equally underappreciated, or is the landscape more transparent now? Drop your thoughts below—this debate might just be as intense as the ring itself.
