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WHAT IS THE BEST FIGHT FOR THE PACMAN RIGHT NOW?


PhilBoxing.com


WBC Jr. Lightweight Champion Juan Manuel Marquez 47-3-1 35kos from Mexico is the obvious front runner and the fans choice. This is exactly the type of fight boxing needs and is one of the best Super Fights that can be made. Marquez v Pacquiao II sells its self.

Mexican legend Marco Antonio Barrera 63-5 42 kos may have recently lost his title to Marquez, but a rematch with Manny would be a war that fans of both fighters willl certainly enjoy. The winner of this fight would generate even more interest for a rematch with Juan Manuel Marquez.

WBA Jnr. Lightweight Champion Edwin Valero 22-0 22kos from Venezuela is a threat to beat anyone he fights. If he was matched up with Manny Pacquiao he could emerge as one of the most fearsome fighters in boxing. The Japan based Valero looks to be a legitimate power house. His strength and relentless pressure would make for an entertaining match up against any of the divisions elite boxers. But he has not fought anyone near the calibre of Manny Pacquiao, so no matter who is Pac Man's next opponent he will enter the ring with No Fear.

Humberto Soto 41-5-2 25kos from Mexico looks like he is being primed to be Manny's next opponent due to the fact he is also promoted by Top Rank. This depends on him defeating Bobby Pacquiao in his up and coming fight. Soto has not lost in his last 19 bouts, he may be relatively unknown but he has wins over some tough opponents including Rocky Juarez. Soto is in his prime right now and like Valero would be a dangerous opponent for anyone in the division.

WBO Jnr. Lightweight Champion Joan Guzman 27-0 17kos from the Dominican Republic is a very skill full boxer with good strength and durability. The addition of Floyd Mayweather Snr. will certainly add to his power, but he has not brought his knock out punch with him as he moved up in weight. Outside of a possible big pay day fighting Manny, Guzman doesn't seem interested in testing his skills in the 130lbs weight class. If Guzman v Pacquiao doesn't happen, he will more than likely step up in weight and hope that the fight with Undefeated Australian Michael Katsidis 22-0 20kos is still there for him.

IBF Jr. Lightweight Champion Mzonke Fana 26-3 9kos from South Africa proved to be a class below the elite of the division when he was knocked out in two rounds by Barrera. But to his credit he has bounced back to win the title, he has a win over Randy Suico and most of the boxers on his resume have winning records. He is a good boxer, but he lacks the power and strength to seriously be a threat to the top guns of the division. Assuming Manny doesn't underestimate Fana. Capturing the IBF title might give Pacquiao more leverage financialy, negotiating fights with other world champions.

WBA Featherweight Champion Chris John 39-0-1 20kos from Indonesia is more likely to have a big fight with Rocky Juarez, than a show down with Pacquiao. But his win over Juan Manuel Marquez shows that he is worthy of a mention amongst the elite. Marquez disputes the Indonesian's win and wants to avenge his loss with a rematch. If Chris John keeps winning maybe the first all Asian Super Fight is on the horizon.

Joel Casamayor 34-3-1 21kos from Cuba who's last fight was a win over the late Diego "chico" Corrales in the lightweight division, like Manny is referred to as the best fighter in his weight class inspite of not having the title. A catch weight fight between these to uncrowned champions might generate the funds Manny is looking for. Casamayor v Pacquiao would also be one hell of a fight.

There are a few good prospects coming up to look out for.

Leonilo Miranda 26-0 25kos Mexico
Alex Arthur 24-1 18kos Scotland
Koba Gogoladze 20-1 8kos Georgia


Click here to view a list of other articles written by Danny Leigh.


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