• Manny Pacquiao v Timothy Bradley

Bradley: Pacquiao wants Marquez, not me

ESPN staff
June 18, 2012
Timothy Bradley beat Manny Pacquiao on points earlier this month © PA Photos
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Timothy Bradley has suggested Manny Pacquiao has no interest in agreeing a rematch to draw a line under the controversy that has raged since their first meeting.

Bradley beat Pacquiao on points earlier this month to take the WBO welterweight title, with the judges' verdict attracting widespread incredulity, as many commentators felt Pacquiao won the contest comfortably.

The WBO is to conduct a full video review of the bout with five "recognised international judges", who will report their findings back to the organisation and offer a recommendation.

Bradley cannot be stripped of his belt by the WBO, but a rematch could be ordered. There was reportedly a rematch clause in the initial contract signed by Bradley and Pacquiao, and a potential November date has been mentioned.

However, during a rally to celebrate Bradley's triumph over Pacquiao - one of the biggest shocks in recent years - the unbeaten American said a rematch is unlikely, according to the Desert Sun. "And I think Marquez will beat him," Bradley said.

Instead of a rematch, Bradley believes Pacquiao wants to take on Juan Manuel Marquez, the Mexican veteran, for a fourth time. Pacquiao was the recipient of a contestable points decision when he met Marquez last year.

Meanwhile, Bob Arum, who promotes both Pacquiao and Bradley, told boxingscene.com: "There can't be a rematch. It's very, very hard to sell a rematch because it was a one-sided fight."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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