Mayweather can use Ortiz fight to get one-over on Pacquaio

Victor Ortiz is expected to be the next stepping stone on the path to Floyd Mayweather eventually facing Manny Pacquiao and the unbeaten American could use the fight to gain some bragging rights over his future opponent.

The showdown with Ortiz gives Mayweather the opportunity to become a boxing world champion for the eighth time, which would move him one ahead of Pacquaio.

Mayweather is a heavy favourite at 1/8 to beat Ortiz and become the WBC welterweight champion for the second time, having already forfeited the belt previously in 2008.

Victory number 42 of a distinguished career for Mayweather could then add some extra spice to a bout with Pacquaio as it could also be sold as a welterweight title unification fight, not that the battle would need any added reasons to boost promotion.

Another thing that is unlikely to be required is that Mayweather would need any excess advantages to beat Ortiz, as the speed and accuracy of his punches and the unorthodox and efficient nature of his defence makes him almost impossible to stop.

But the fact Joe Cortez has been confirmed as referee is surely something that only helps Mayweather.

Although one of the most experienced referees in the business, Cortez is perhaps most remembered for being the third man in the ring for Mayweather’s clash with Ricky Hatton in 2007.

There is a common consensus that Cortez’ officiating was to blame for Hatton’s defeat, particularly in terms of being over eager and at times instant in separating clinches, which in turn prevented the Brit from working on the inside, one of his greatest strengths.

Meanwhile, with Mayweather’s long reach advantage, the fight was almost forced to be contested at range, which gave Hatton virtually no chance of winning.

Whether Cortez’ decision making will favour Mayweather again against Ortiz remains to be seen, especially as he is likely to be fully aware of the criticisms he received following the Hatton fight.