By Luis Sandoval
Juan Manuel Marquez has already secured being recognized as one of the greatest Mexican champions in the sport of boxing but he is still trying to add more to his 62 fight career. Marquez will try to capture his fifth world title in a fifth weight class when he takes on WBO Welterweight champion Timothy Bradley on October 12th in Las Vegas, NV.
Marquez is coming off the biggest victory of his career as he knocked Manny Pacquiao out cold in the 6th round of their bout. While Marquez ended things emphatically, it was actually Pacquiao who was having success in the 2 rounds prior to Marquez landing his knockout blow.
BoxingScene caught up with Marquez’s trainer Ignacio “Nacho” Beristain and was asked to give his thoughts on the upcoming clash.
“They’re going to find a completely different Juan Manuel Marquez than they saw against Pacquiao. Very strong, he’s gained speed. He’s dedicated to giving the Latino people another great victory” said Beristain.
Marquez isn’t exactly a spring chicken as he turns 40 years old today and is the reason why some doubt if Marquez can still be effective against a fighter like Bradley. Many think Bradley’s youth, strength and hunger will make the difference in the fight and aren’t sure if Marquez will be able to cope.
“We are trying to get a little more speed so we don’t give a chance to Bradley who’s fast. We are working on a lot of defense because when you make Bradley miss it’s like his batteries drain a bit. We intend on beating him [using] Mexican technique versus Bradley’s technique” Beristain would tell BoxingScene.
Both fighters have promised to bring their best and despite Marquez’s age, Beristain believes he’s still excelling at this stage of his career.
“He’s exceeding the level even though its odd seeing it at his age. He’s going to give you all a surprise”.
You can follow Luis Sandoval on Twitter @Truewest007. You can also tune in to BoxingScene Radio, Boxingscene’s official audio show every Tuesday from 6-8PM PST with hosts Ernest Gabion, Luis Sandoval, and Ryan Burton.


