12.06.06 – By Joseph Carlo Russo: Leading up to the June 10th showdown at the Mecca between Miguel Cotto and Paul Malignaggi (photo Chris Farina / Top Rank) much the talk revolved around which round Cotto was going to take Malignaggi out in. Unbeknownst to most fight fans and skeptics was the courage, heart, devotion, and determination that burns within Bensonhurst, Brooklyn’s Paulie Malignaggi.
But, on June 10th in the wake of Paulie’s courageous effort his true colors were unveiled. As the arrogant, motor-mouthing, skirt wearing speedster that many fight fans have come to dislike Paulie as, Malignaggi showed on June 10th that it is all just a mask for the courageous and passionate fighter that he actually is.
Having never fought on such a stage against such a high caliber of opponent Malignaggi appeared to have his hands full Saturday night. And he couldn’t have handled it any better. Suffering his first cut and knockdown of his career in rounds one and two Malignaggi appeared a little spooked by the predicament.. But, he got his bearings and adjusted as he took about five rounds from the heir to the Puerto Rican boxing throne Miguel Cotto and nearly wobbled him once. And when the waters were rough Malgnaggi bit down and took the punishment like so many great Italian fighters have done in the past.
During the post fight interview Paulie expressed nothing but his deepest respects for both Cotto and the sport as he made no excuses and commended Cotto on his victory furthering silencing critics.
Amidst Paul Malignaggi’s only loss as a pro is perhaps his greatest victory as a fighter. Through his performance, he showed that he is a world class fighter with true talent, a fighting spirit, and potential for great improvement. And through his words he exhibited his love, hunger, and devotion to the sport. He competed on the highest stage the sport has to offer and demonstrated everything a fight fan wants to see in a fighter. Courageous in battle and gracious in defeat Paulie Malignaggi has unveiled his true colors.