Miguel Cotto Sr. (57), The Father of former two-time welterweight (147 pounds) Champion Boxer Miguel Cotto Jr. has died. He had health issues including asthma, (significant enough that he needed to use oxygen from time to time). Cotto Sr. was driving his car in Caguas, Puerto Rico, when the apparent attack occurred. According to reports, he stopped the car, and sought help before collapsing. It seems that he had an asthma attack that led to a cardiac arrest and subsequent death.
Mr. Cotto was very close to, and supportive of his son. He was a large influence on his son’s career and his personal life. I always found him to be a very nice and friendly man, even after long press junkets. Those who knew him, and the rest of the boxing world will miss him.
Funeral plans have not been announced as of this writing. They are expected to be in Puerto Rico. Cotto Sr. is survived by his other son, 32-year-old welterweight contender Jose Migel Cotto (31-1-1, 23 KOs), and three grandchildren. Our condolences go out to Mr. Cotto’s family at this very difficult time.
