Golovkin, 32, faces Martin Murray on February 21 in Monte Carlo as the Kazakh puncher edges towards a possible mandatory bout with WBC champion Miguel Cotto in the autumn. Leonard sees an abundance of talent currently gracing the 160lb division and plenty of opponents waiting in the wings for ‘GGG’ to enhance his reputation further.
“Golovkin is a force to be reckoned with and a fan favourite. If he could fight with Cotto it would be an exciting fight for the fans,” Leonard exclusively told World Boxing News.
On Golovkin’s upcoming clash with Briton Murray and a possible upset, Leonard added: “It’s up to Murray and how he approaches the fight, but if Golovkin prevails, there are a number of fighters that come to mind like Cotto, Canelo, Hassan N’Dam, Peter Quillin and Jermell Charlo that can challenge him in the future.
“In my view, Golovkin can stay at middleweight and fight really good opponents on his way to greatness.”
Veteran Cotto is enjoying a resurgence since deciding to move up from 154lbs, although there are some that believe the Puerto Rican will struggle to find his feet at the weight, although Leonard says only the fighter can decide his own fate.
“Cotto, who is one of my favorites, should just listen to his body’s comfort and do what is right for him. I am sure he will know what is the right thing to do,” said the former multi-weight world champion.
