By Lem Satterfield
Top Rank has issued a revised offer to Juan Manuel Marquez (52-5-1, 38KOs), which outlines the terms for a fall trilogy meeting with Manny Pacquiao (53-3-2, 38KOs). The grudge match will either take place on November 5 or November 12 in Las Vegas. Golden Boy Promotions, pursuant to the terms of their expired promotional contract with Marquez, have the ability to match the offer presented by Top Rank.
"Marquez was sent, [Monday morning], the revised offer, which is now the offer that is on the table. We've sent a copy of that revised offer to Golden Boy. While Marquez has that offer now, we understand that he is going to meet with his attorney and they are going to send it to Golden Boy to tell Golden Boy that they have a right to match the offer," Arum told BoxingScene.com.
"If they match the offer, that's up to them, but if they don't match the offer, then we go ahead with the Marquez fight. But our lawyers are monitoring this and want everything to be done legally. They don't have to surpass it, all that they have to do is match it."
If Golden Boy is able to match the offer, then Marquez is obligated to go with their proposal - but Top Rank is confident the offer will not be matched due to several factors. Reportedly, the trilogy offer includes a guarantee of $5 million dollars, plus an upside from the pay-per-view, and a rematch clause which guarantees Marquez $10 million dollars. Golden Boy would also have to match the weight, which is going to be 145-pounds, according to a recent statement given by Pacquiao's adviser, Michael Koncz, to BoxingScene.
"We don't believe that they will match it because, A), the price, and secondly because of the maximum weight," Arum said.