• Welterweight

Marquez: I have nothing left to prove against Pacquiao

ESPN staff
May 8, 2013
Juan Manuel Marquez knocked Manny Pacquiao out at the fourth attempt in December 2012 © Getty Images
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Juan Manuel Marquez turned down a potential fifth bout with Manny Pacquiao as the Mexican believes he has nothing more to prove against the Filipino welterweight.

Marquez, 39, will face unbeaten champion Timothy Bradley for the WBO welterweight title on September 14, rather than a money-spinning fifth tie with 'Pac Man'.

The 39-year-old has fought Pacquiao four times; a draw in May 2004 was succeeded by two losses, first by split decision in 2008 before a majority decision in Pacquiao's favour in November 2011.

Marquez finally tasted victory at the fourth attempt, knocking Pacquiao out in the sixth round of their December 2012 rematch, and insists he should have been considered the winner in the previous three fights.

"Everybody has their own opinion. To each their own," Marquez told BoxingScene.com. "I don't know why [Timothy] Bradley doesn't want to fight him.

"I don't know his situation. In my case we have already fought four times and I practically won all four. The first time was a draw, the second time was a split decision and the third time was a majority decision where it was even more clear I should have won.

"In the fourth fight I left no doubt as to who won and that cleared up the first three fights."

Pacquiao's advisor Michael Koncz recently confirmed that Marquez had been offered $13 million for a rematch, but the former WBO lightweight titlist stated that money was not his primary motive.

"Honour comes first. My personal honour and the honour of my people come first," Marquez added. "The feeling that I have from that victory [over Pacquiao] is very rewarding.

"It is something that I will keep with me for the rest of my life. Money isn't the most important factor."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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