Marquez: Pacquiao-Mayweather should happen, but Mayweather wins

MANILA, Philippines – Count Juan Manuel Marquez among those who want to see Manny Pacquiao and Floyd Mayweather finally meet in the ring.

Marquez, who fought Pacquiao four times from 2004 to 2012 and Mayweather once in 2009, tells ESPN Deportes that the fight is overdue and should happen as soon as possible.

“As a fan, I think the fight should get done and they need to stop the bickering over who wants to earn more than the other. The most important thing here is that the fight is carried out and [that both of them] stop talking about nonsense – and give the fans what they want – the fight. First thing, they need to make this fight to make it clear who is who,” said the 41-year-old Marquez, as translated by boxing reporter Miguel Rivera. 

In four meetings with Pacquiao, Marquez (56-7-1, 40 knockouts) has a draw, two decision losses and a knockout win in order. Against Mayweather, Marquez lost a one-sided decision. When asked whom he thought would have the edge should they fight, Marquez pointed to the unbeaten American.

“For me, Mayweather would win. He is not a [heavy] puncher, but he is an artist in the ring. He is the best in terms of defense and he’s very quick with counter-punches and that’s what hurts Pacquiao. He handles timing very well and it is an important factor and a very harmful weapon against Pacquiao,” Marquez said.

“[Mayweather] won’t win by knockout, but on points. We know that defensively Mayweather is the best in the world and he is considered as the best pound for pound.”

After Pacquiao’s most recent win over Chris Algieri earlier this month, the 35-year-old Pacquiao (57-5-2, 38 KOs) called out Mayweather in the post-fight press conference.

“It’s been a long time that I want that fight but I’m just the one talking about that fight. The other camp, they’re always denying to talk about that fight. So better to say nothing,” said Pacquiao.

(RELATED: Pacquiao puts pressure on Mayweather after Algieri beating)

Pacquiao’s promoter Bob Arum revealed that they’ve been in talks with Les Moonves, CEO of Showtime’s parent company CBS, about making the fight. Mayweather hasn’t been as outspoken about the fight, but addressed Pacquiao on his social media accounts by posting a video of his loss to Marquez.

Pacquiao responded to the mockery days later, telling Mayweather “He thinks I’m easy to be knocked out… come on, let’s fight.” – Rappler.com