Phil D. Jay
WBN Editor
Mexican legend jokes as discussions continue
Juan Manuel Marquez gave some of those pining for a fifth
bout with Manny Pacquiao when the WBO light-welterweight champion cheekily
announced his decision to step away from boxing at the age of 39.
On the back of his greatest achievement to date, a sixth
round walloping of his Filipino rival, Marquez then went back on his decision to
clarify that talks are still ongoing with his family about whether or not he
will accept the offer to fight Pacquiao again next year.
“Today at 39 years I've decided to retire,” stated Marquez
via his personal Facebook page. “I did what I had to do in boxing and demonstrated
myself to be the best and face the best.”
Marquez then went on:”Happy April Fool's Day! “I'm still
negotiating with my family and we will see what comes to us. I won’t announce
my decision on an ESPN program so enjoy our special customs!”
Promoter Bob Arum, who represents both fighters, has already
stated that plans for the two pound for pound warriors to meet again later next
year are in place and more will be released on the matter once Pacquiao returns
from a family holiday.
The ‘Pacman’ was due to fight again in April, although
publicist Fred Sterberg told WBN That this was now unlikely to happen due to
the Congressman’s busy political schedule and September or later in 2013 was
more realistic for a fifth meeting.