By Jhonny Gonzalez
WBA/WBO lightweight champion Juan Manuel Marquez, 38-years-old, is feeling good about the events related to his career in 2011 - but it could have been better. He finally had his dream come true in November, when he stepped in the ring for a third time with Manny Pacquiao.
Marquez moved up to a catch-weight of 144-pounds to challenge Pacquiao for the WBO's welterweight crown. Although Marquez lost a twelve round majority decision at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, a lot of the ringside experts, and the viewing public, believed he won.
"I can say that this year lacked the cherry on the cake. I just want people to remember that moment in time [third Pacquiao fight], because I'll always have it in my memory, and I will relive it and enjoy it as much as I can - because on that night Mexico returned to the top in boxing," Marquez told Sal Rodriguez.
"In summary I can say that it was great to feel the affection of the people. The years will pass and people will remember how we beat Pacquiao, remember that a Mexican solved the puzzle, and every time you remember it, you should feel very proud to be Mexican."
