My reaction as well. But he STH was coerced, Gestapo-like.
In any event, rat out a NY billionaire with specious claims and you should expect to go through the rest of your life looking over your shoulder.
The only thing coercing Cohen is his desire to get back at Trump, for whatever reason he has. That's the only motivation he needs. As a result he will say anything, do anything, spin any tale to achieve his goal.