MANILA, Philippines – Juan Manuel Marquez said his fight against Colombia’s Likar Ramos is part of his preparations for the November 12 bout against Filipino superstar Manny Pacquiao.“I’ve already started training. I need to stay active because I’m expecting a hard fight against Pacquiao,” Marquez told ABS-CBN’s Dyan Castillejo.
He believes that his tune-up fight, which takes place on July 16, will prepare him perfectly in time for his bout against the “fighting congressman” from the Philippines.
Marquez chose the Colombian boxer for his tune-up fight because just like Pacquiao, Ramos is a southpaw.
“I’ll only get 15 days rest after the Ramos fight, then train again for Pacquiao,” said Marquez, the reigning World Boxing Association (WBA) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) lightweight champion.
Marquez admitted that Pacquiao has improved since their last fight.
He said this is the reason why he’ll need thorough preparation for their third bout.“He’s added new techniques in his fighting style. I need to really train hard for my fight against Manny,” he said.
The Mexican champion assured boxing fans he won’t fight the way “Sugar” Shane Mosley did when he faces Pacquiao.
“Like a true Mexican warrior, I’ll match Pacquiao punch-by-punch to get the victory,” he said.
The Pacquiao-Marquez fight will take place at the 144-pound catch weight.
Pacquiao’s World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight title will be at stake.
