Marquez-Pacquiao Fourth Boxing Match Is 95% Done

Thursday, September 6, 2012

Marquez-Pacquiao Fourth Boxing Match Is 95% Done

MANILA, Philippines – Juan Manuel Marquez is reportedly close to reaching a coveted fourth fight against Manny Pacquiao, according to the Mexican’s boxing promoter.

"Verbally we can announce that on December 8, we will have this fight, but nothing more because I am being conservative. I say that 95% it is closed [a done deal]," Fernando Beltran of Zanfer Promotions said in Boxing Scene.

Marquez wanted to have a closure on his rivalry with Pacquiao by going for a fourth face-off.

In 2004, the Mexican salvaged a draw despite being knocked down thrice by Pacquiao in the first round.

Pacquiao got back at Marquez in 2008 by edging the Mexican in a split decision.

Last November, the Filipino won again over Marquez via majority decision.

"The only reason I cannot guarantee the fight is because there is not a signed contract from Pacquiao before us, however, in the coming hours, we will have it," said Beltran.

Marquez is one of the three boxers considered for Pacquiao’s ring return.

The others include American boxer Timothy Bradley and Miguel Cotto of Puerto Rico, who was recently dropped from the list after he announced facing Austin Trout on December 1.

Bradley was reportedly the least considered opponent due to the low pay-per-view sales of his bout against Pacquiao last June.

"Pacquiao knows that he needs to fight Márquez in order to regain his credibility. And even more so after the controversial defeat against [Timothy] Bradley; now he knows what it feels like. It is the opportunity for him to vindicate himself with the boxing world and the opportunity to clearly beat Juan," said Beltran.