Talkin’ Boxing with Cotto Fitness Coach Phil Landman

By Scoop Malinowski

Miguel Cotto’s fitness & nutrition coach Phil Landman took time out from riding waves of the San Diego surf to answer questions about his man’s very impressive domination of arch-rival Antonio Margarito at Madison Square Garden on December 5…

BoxingInsider: What changes did you make to Miguel’s training regimen to improve his stamina for the second Margarito fight compared to the first?

Phil Landman: “Nothing really, Pedro just put a lot more emphasis on specific boxing work to improve and compliment to the conditioning program I have in place for Miguel. That helped a lot with his overall preparation.”

BoxingInsider: It looked like the fight was going perfectly for Team Cotto and he was not going to have any problem finishing the 12 rounds at that pace. Your comment?

Phil Landman: “Miguel was prepared for that. The fight plan was carefully planned and Miguel knew exactly what was needed to be done to accomplish what he did.”

BoxingInsider: Did Miguel say anything about Margarito’s punches feeling different this time compared to first fight?

Phil Landman: “I never spoke to him about it so I can’t give you a good answer.”

BoxingInsider: What changes and advantages did the new Cuban Pedro trainer bring to Team Cotto?

Phil Landman: “All trainers who have worked with Miguel bring their own knowledge and ideas which Miguel continues to use, and Pedro was the same. He and Pedro worked really well together and the new ideas he brought to the camp helped Miguel achieve the victory over Margarito.”

BoxingInsider:How would you rate this performance by Miguel compared to all the other fights you have worked with him for? In some ways it may have been his best.

Phil Landman: “I would say it was one of Miguel’s best performances. He had a lot to show boxing fans after what happened in the first fight and his motivation and commitment throughout the camp showed his determination for the result he achieved.

BoxingInsider: Any idea of future boxing plans for Miguel and where would you like to see him go next, Pacquiao rematch, Mayweather, Chavez, Canelo Alvarez, Kirkland, Margarito III?

Phil Landman: “I am sure he would love a rematch with Manny Pacquiao. I am sure of any of the other names as well. Miguel is always ready!”