By Ernesto Castellanos, notifight.com
Juan Manuel Marquez is getting a lot of pressure to retire from boxing. The Mexican fighter's wife, Erika, wants him to end his career with the sixth round knockout of Manny Pacquiao, which took place on December 8th at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Juan, 39-years-old, is trying to convince her to allow him to continue his career, at least for one more fight, but she hasn't budged from her position. There is some internal support. Juan's oldest son, Aldo, wants has father to continue in the sport.
"I've asked Juan to leave [boxing]. Yeah, [there are a lot of] offers to continue fighting, but all of the money in the world won't buy you another life, and no money in the world will buy you another brain. What I want is for him to retire and to devote his time to enjoying his family. When Juan fights I suffer enough. In this fight [with Pacquiao] it was no exception. I was very [upset] when I saw Pacquiao's wife crying, desperate to climb into the ring. She feared the worst. I saw what she felt and I reflected, and understood her suffering. I felt her anguish when I saw that Pacquiao did not move and did not get up," Erika said.
"Since Juan came home after this victory I've said the same thing that I'm saying now, to stop boxing, and in my way of thinking there is no turning back. He could leave right now with [his senses intact] and in his glory. I know that is a difficult step [to walk away], but it's my opinion and I gave it."
Juan Manuel is still thinking it over.
"When I make my decision, it will be final. I don't want to be someone who retires and then comes right back. I'm talking with my wife and trying to convince her [to let me fight once more]," Marquez said.
If Marquez continues to fight, there is a lot of money at stake in a fifth match with Pacquiao.