Marquez camp open to fifth fight

MANILA, Philippines - The camp of Juan Manuel Marquez has no problem returning the favor to Manny Pacquiao by giving him a rematch if he wants.

After all, it was Pacquiao who gave Marquez another shot at redemption, something the Mexican seized and made the most of by knocking out his archrival in the sixth round of their fight last Dec. 8 in Las Vegas.

It was the most convincing win in the pair’s storied rivalry, with their first three fights – a draw in 2004, and close decision wins for Pacquiao in 2008 and 2011 – yielding disputable results.

In a report by ESPNDeportes.com’s Alfredo R. Berrios, Fernando Beltran, who represents Marquez, said they are willing to face Pacquiao for a fifth time.

“Logically, we will find what’s most lucrative for him (Marquez), in order to be an important fight,” Beltran told Berrios from Mexico City.

Lucrative for Marquez may mean another fight with Pacquiao.

“Juan Manuel Marquez and myself are gentlemen and we know that Pacquiao gave us an opportunity, and he didn’t have to, and most probably we will give it to him,” Beltran added.

Pacquiao has gone on record that he will fight again, and his trainer Freddie Roach is eyeing September for his ward’s ring return.

In the same report, Top Rank spokesman Fred Sternburg said a September comeback fight for Pacquiao is feasible.

“He’s indicated he will fight again. Bob (Arum) has indicated (that it would be) September,” said Fred Sternburg, spokesman for Top Rank, Arum’s promotion company.

“Between the suspension and the election and campaign in Philippines, we think we can do it.” – Contributor Dino Maragay