All signs are go for a third fight between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez. Their first two fights produced great drama, action and controversy.
While it seems that their third fight will produce another tooth and nail battle, this could be a case of smoke and mirrors. The first two sensational fights were at 126 lbs. and 130 lbs., respectively. Marquez was a force at both weights. Pacquiao was as exciting as he is now. The third fight will be at a catchweight limit of 144 pounds. Pacquiao has carried his speed and power as he went up in weight. The same can't be said of Marquez. He has weighed over 140 lbs. only once in his career. It was against Floyd Mayweather Jr. and he clearly wasn’t the same fighter. He was lethargic and sluggish. Fortunately for Marquez, Mayweather doesn't have a killer instinct. He doesn’t go for the knock out. Pacquiao does.
Their first fight was very memorable. Marquez, knocked down three times in the first round by Pacquiao's unrelenting left hands, rallied and forced a draw. Their second fight was so highly competitive that many argue Pacquiao actually lost.
Pacquiao has always had a difficult time with Marquez's technical boxing and savvy counter punching. But that was before Freddie Roach developed Pacquiao’s right hand and footwork. Not only does Marquez have to contend with the extra weight, he has to deal with a more dynamic Pacquiao. Don't get me wrong. It'll be an exciting fight because Marquez will not run away like Shane Mosley or turtle-up like Joshua Clottey. He'll stand and trade shots with Pacquiao. It’s doubtful though that he’ll survive like the first two fights. Pacquiao has a vastly improved offensive repertoire now.
Their third fight could look like their first fight, except Marquez isn’t likely to get up from three knock downs again. Don't be surprised if their rubber match ends in the same manner the third Pacquiao - Erik Morales match did.
Source: 8countnews.com
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