Monday, March 17, 2008
Marquez demands rematch (7:32 p.m.)
LAS VEGAS -- Juan Manuel Marquez, the Mexican World Boxing Council (WBC) super featherweight titleholder, demands a rematch with Philippine boxing hero Manny Pacquiao after losing the bout Saturday (Sunday, Philippine time) at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Richard Schafer, Marquez's promoter, said in a press conference right after the Marquez-Pacquaio fight Saturday that the judges' decision is not fair.
"They should fight again. I believe that Marquez deserves a rematch," said Schafer.
Marquez, for his part, said in Spanish: "I want a rematch. I believe that I still deserve the WBC super featherweight title. The people know that. I was more aggressive and I was able to throw more solid punches than Pacquiao."
Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum, on the other hand, said nothing's wrong with the decision. He said the people judge fairly, and Marquez's camp should learn to accept the verdict of the judges.
When asked about the Mexican boxer's demand, Pacquaio admitted that Marquez has improved a lot, but said he still is the champion.
"Knock-outin muna nya ako bago sya manalo (He should knock me out first before he gets the title)," Pacquiao said, adding "Anytime, pwede kaming mag rematch ni Marquez. Kahit wala pang gloves, suntukan na kami. Kahit saan pwede kaming magharap (I can fight with Marquez anytime. We can throw punches even without gloves. Anywhere, anytime)."
The extremely popular Filipino icon who was very hungry for victory dropped Marquez in the third round en route to scoring a split 112-115, 115-112, 114-113 decision win despite struggling with a cut on his right eye. (Sunnex) |
