Kermit Cintron Looks to Avenge Loss to Antonio Margarito

Kermit Cintron lost by fifth-round knockout to Antonio Margarito in April of 2005. (AP Images)

Kermit Cintron (29-1, 26 KO's) was an undefeated rising star in the welterweight division when he fought Antonio Margarito (41-5, 25 KO's) in April of 2005.

Margarito was the WBO champion, and it was Cintron's first world title bout. It would also mark the first loss of his pro career. After four knockdowns, Margarito retained his belt by fifth-round knockout.

Saturday, April 12, the tables will be turned for the rematch as Cintron defends his IBF title against Margarito, still the only man to defeat him.

Currently, Margarito is the -285 favorite in the Bodog Sportsbook, while Cintron is a +225 underdog.

According to Cintron, his performance in the first fight was hampered by a hand injury.

"I wasn't able to throw my right until the last 2 weeks of training," he says. "Then I hurt it again. I was having problems with my trainer, too. Looking back, I probably never should have gotten into the ring that night."

Now, with hall-of-fame trainer Emanuel Steward in his corner, Cintron thinks he's ready to redeem himself.

"I'm more focused now," he explains. "The loss to Margarito was probably better for me, in a way, than if I had won."

Bet on Cintron vs. Margarito in the Bodog Sportsbook.

All lines subject to change.