According to promoter Fernando Beltran of Zanfer Promotions, a deal is nearly complete for a fourth meeting between Juan Manuel Marquez (54-6-1, 39KOs) and Manny Pacquiao (54-4-2, 38KOs).
Marquez’s position to secure the Filipino star was increased last Friday when Miguel Cotto was unable to reach an agreement with Pacquiao and finalized a deal to fight Austin Trout on December 1.
Pacquiao-Marquez would take place on December 8th. Once again Beltran does make it clear that he doesn’t have a contract for the fight.
The two boxers have fought each other three times. All three bouts have ended with controversy. A twelve round draw in 2004, Pacquiao winning a controversial split decision in 2008, and Pacquiao winning a controversial majority decision last year.
“The only reason that I can’t guarantee the fight is [happening] is because there isn’t a signed contract from Pacquiao in front of us. Nevertheless, in the next few hours we will have it. I can’t say anything more because I am being conservative, but I can say that it is 95 percent [done],” Beltran said in a telephone interview.
“Pacquiao knows that he needs to fight Márquez in order to regain his credibility. And even more so after the controversial defeat against [Timothy] Bradley; now he knows what it feels like. It is the opportunity for him to vindicate himself with the boxing world and the opportunity to clearly beat Juan.”
