Floyd Mayweather punches Miguel Cotto during their fight Saturday night.
Floyd Mayweather will fight for the second time in four months. REUTERS

Challenger Miguel Cotto battled valiantly against the undefeated Floyd Mayweather on Saturday night in Las Vegas, but the champion retained his belt in a 117-111, 118-110, 117-111 decision.

Cotto forced Mayweather to brawl with him, keeping Money penned up in the corners and against the ropes for much of the fight. He seemed to have Mayweather on the ropes about halfway through the fight.

A good stiff jab from Cotto left Mayweather bleeding from the nose and mouth on more than one occasion.

Mayweather acquitted himself well under one of the worst onslaughts he has faced in his professional career, proving once again that he is the best pound-for-pound fighter in the world.

By the end of the night, Cotto appeared too exhausted from the exertions of the fight to keep pushing. It allowed Mayweather to win the final few rounds and gain the narrow decision.

Mayweather kept up his reputation for showmanship, entering the ring with an entourage that included WWE star Triple H, rapper 50 Cent, and pop star Justin Bieber.

Cotto entered surrounded by his family and training staff.