Pacquiao-Marquez 5? WBO chief says it’s still possible

MANILA, Philippines – Archrivals Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez may have gone separate ways after trading punches for four exciting fights, but a fifth meeting isn’t out of the question.

This even as Marquez had gone on record that he’s done with Pacquiao, having proven his mastery over the Filipino when he knocked him out cold in their fourth bout last December.

It’s because according to the rules of the World Boxing Organization, both fighters could meet again along the way should they hurdle their upcoming fights.

In a report by Ernest Castellanos of notifight.com, WBO president Francico "Paco" Valcarcel said if Marquez wins his next fight against WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley in November, he should defend the title against Pacquiao next.

This of course would be possible if Pacquiao also gets past Brandon Rios in their fight, which is likewise scheduled in November.

"If Marquez and Pacquiao both win, the World Boxing Organization regulations would view the Filipino as [the mandatory] challenger to Juan Manuel,” Valcarcel said.

Pacquiao was the previous holder of the WBO welterweight trinket before Bradley beat him in a controversial decision last June.

“Pacquiao goes against Rios for the WBO International title, while Marquez will attempt to capture the world welterweight championship of the WBO from Bradley. If both win, the bout between them would be ready,” added Valcarcel.

Valcarcel, however, understands that it is still up to Marquez and Pacquiao to stage a fifth fight. While Pacquiao is open to it, Marquez has had enough, believing there’s no more unfinished business between them.

“But of course, the fighters have the last word," the WBO chief said.