Al Bernstein's Blog March 10, 2009 Marquez Finally Gets Recognition One of the most under appreciated boxers of this era is Juan Manuel Marquez. In his 15 year pro career he has won 50 fights—losing four—three close questionable decisions and one disqualification in his first match. In other words, he could easily be undefeated over this 15 years. Along the way he has won title in three weight divisions, beaten seven former current world champions and perhaps most importantly has twice fought Manny Pacquiao to a standstill in exciting fights. Unfortunately for Marquez he came away with a draw and split decision loss in those two fights. With all that only recently has he been given his due as one of the most skilled boxers of the last two decades. And, at age 35 her is still at the top of his game. His thrilling win over lightweight champ Juan Diaz few weeks ago was evidence of his skills and grit. It was quite simply a classic fight. Against a much younger man who was also a true lightweight, Marquez got through some troubled waters to stop Diaz. Marquez, who started his pro career at 124 has come up to 135 with ease and performed extremely well. In his last five fights he is 4-1 against Marco Antonio Barerra, Rocky Jaurez, Manny Pacquiao, Joel Casamayor and Juan Diaz. Three of those men are future hall of famers (like Marquez) and the other two are excellent young fighters—one a champion. Recognition and financial rewards are coming his way now after a long period without either. In truth he and his management team share some of the blame for the financial part because of some strange business and promotional decisions. But, still, there was never a reason not to identify him as a great fighter. Thankfully that is happenings now. (This blog is written exclusively for USSportspages.com readers. To see more of Al’s coverage of boxing go to the Al Bernstein Boxing Channel at ibnsports.com. To contact Al call Adie Zuckerman at the Al Bernstein Live offices at 847-827-9212 or e-mail to adie@albernsteinlive.com). Archives: January 14, 2009 January 19, 2009 January 27, 2009 February 4, 2009 February 18, 2009 February 24, 2009 March 10, 2009