Boxing Perspective: Andre Berto-Rising Star

ByMichael Verville

Andre Berto, 21-0 (18), is a strong, fast, up and coming welterweight who in the past few years has made his way into the spotlight, showing more of the immense depth that this division has to offer. The 24 year old from Winter Haven, FL holds impressive wins thus far, giving a glimpse on what his future may have in store.

The prospect turned contender has enjoyed a few key wins during his rise. In July of 2007, Berto had his first real test when he faced seasoned Mexican Cosme Rivera in Saratoga Springs, NY.

For the first time in his career, Berto had to haul himself off the canvas in the sixth round to mount a comeback that ended in a 10 round unanimous decision win over the experienced veteran.

In August of last year, Berto squared off with a very game David Estrada in a WBC and IBF title eliminator in Atlantic City and Estrada started quickly against Berto, only to have it end in an 11th round TKO stoppage. The veteran seemed to surprise the younger Berto early on, but the 24 year old would eventually end it after many brutal exchanges and pick up the NABF Welterweight title for his efforts.

Most recently, Germanyʼs Michael Trabant was the latest test for Berto whom battered the tentative veteran all night last month in Temecula, CA. The fight ended after former European Champion Trabant decided not to answer the bell after the sixth round.

While holding wins over some of the divisionʼs gatekeepers, there are many questions that still have yet to be answered by Berto. The first question would be “Is Andre Berto ready for top level fighters?” Most would say no as he has struggled with lower opposition.

But Berto does show great promise with good speed and strength. Defense still seems to be an issue for Berto, although it was hard to tell in his most recent outing against Trabant, who had been somewhat inactive and lacked speed in their meeting.

All in all, Andre Berto is a strong welterweight prospect that if he continues to improve, will become a force in the division, especially with the future of the top tier fighters in question as they age. Does this division hold a place for the 24 year old Andre Berto? Only time will tell, and we canʼt wait!