By Jhonny Gonzalez

According to reports in Mexico and Puerto Rico, Rafael Marquez injured his right thumb and will not be able to fight WBO featherweight champion Juan Manuel Lopez on September 18 in Las Vegas. The international Associated Press quoted Marquez as stating that his doctor recommended a period of six and eight weeks that he needs to rest his hand. The injury is being reported as to have happened when Marquez slammed his truck door on his hand.

"I am very disappointed with what has happened to me. Everyone knows that's the fight I was waiting for, but I definitely won't be ready by September 18," Marquez was quoted as saying by the AP. "I don't know what will happen now. I came from the doctor and he told me not to fight. I'm sad for myself and all of the Mexicans who wanted to see us fight on the 18th in Las Vegas."

Editor's Note: Both Top Rank and Gary Shaw have heard rumors of the injury. Neither has been able to confirm it at the present with Marquez's team. Fernando Beltran of Zanfer, who co-promotes Marquez, was unavailable for comment.