LAS VEGAS ? Every single day since that May evening in 2004, Juan Manuel Marquez has never failed to think about what it feels like having his arms raised against Manny Pacquiao.
Believing that he had been robbed of a clear win the first time they met, Marquez has considered Pacquiao as something like a lump in his throat or some kind of an itch that seemingly couldn?t be scratched off.
That world featherweight title fight was declared a draw on the strength of three knockdowns scored by Pacquiao in the very first round but could have gone Pacquiao?s way if only one of the judges scored the round a 10-6, instead of a 10-7.
Still, Marquez is firm that he had done enough to merit the judges? verdict with his amazing comeback that featured his trademark counter-punching, strengthening his belief that he had been screwed.
The rematch four years later went Pacquiao?s way on a split decision and the third duel in November last year also saw Pacquiao escape with a majority decision.
The mere thought of him being declared winner over Pacquiao is the main reason why Marquez continued to train like hell as he gets ready to square off with his Filipino rival this Saturday.
