Cotto retires after Ali loss

Miguel Cotto bowed out of boxing in New York City, losing his WBO light-middleweight title to Sadam Ali at Madison Square Garden on Saturday night.

The 37-year-old Puerto Rican, boxing in his 47th professional contest, was unable to handle the pace set by Brooklyn boxer Ali, who is eight years Cotto’s junior.

Both fighters were hurt during the contest but after 12 rounds Ali got the nod from all three judges by scores of 115-113, 115-113 and 116-112.

A six-time world champion in four different weight divisions, Cotto (41-5-KO33) vowed he would stick by his decision to retire.

“It is,” he said, when asked if the bout had been his last. “I want to be happy in my home and enjoy my family.”

The rapturous welcome he received upon entering the ring was repeated as he departed in defeat.

“Thank you for supporting me at every opportunity,” Cotto told his fans. “I’m so glad to call Madison Square Garden my home.”