Welterweight champion Andre Berto could have made millions and gained tons of publicity had he not dropped out of his January 30 bout with “Sugar” Shane Mosley.
Instead of Las Vegas, he has gone back to the country he represented in the 2004 Olympics — Haiti.
Just 12 days before the scheduled fight, Berto announced he would withdraw to attend to family matters.
Berto was informed that many of his relatives passed away after the devastating earthquake that left the island in shambles.
“Some things are bigger than what you do in your professional life and career,” said Berto in an interview with The Associated Press sports columnist Tim Dahlberg. “You see things happen to your family and a country you’ve tried to help inspire, and it takes a toll on you.”
Berto’s parents emigrated from Haiti. A year ago, Berto went with his father to aid his people in the already poverty-wrecked island.
“The main thing is to kind of try and boost the morale of the people a little bit and just be there to try and help in any way I can,” he said.
For his fans, it’s a shame this fight won’t proceed. Berto is undefeated with a record of 26 wins with 19 by knockout.
Facing the legendary Mosley would give Berto the needed challenge and exposure most young fighters don’t get in this sport.
Berto has the skills to be a great fighter: good speed, good strength and, apparently, a good chin.
However, time waits for no man. Promoters have moved toward scheduling Mosley to fight Floyd Mayweather Jr. instead.
Berto’s spirit is probably crushed because of the missed opportunity.
But it’s humbling to see Berto put aside his ego and the hard work put in so he could be with his people.
Berto will find another fight. He will have more opportunities to make millions.
He may even get another chance at Mosley or Mayweather.
But Berto will never get another chance to help his country when it’s most needed.