Who’s up next for Pacquiao?
After Manny Pacquiao dismantled Marco Antonio Barrera in a one-sided 12-round showdown, undefeated super featherweight stars Joan Guzman (27-0, 17KOs) of Dominican Republic and Edwin Valero of Venezuela were both vocal on their desire to challenge next the Filipino sports hero.
“When are you going to fight me,” Guzman kept shouting Pacquiao during the post-fight conference. The reigning WBO super featherweight titlist later told reporters that “he will take on all-comers and made it clear that he feels Pacquiao is avoiding a fight with him.”
On the other hand, the Japan-based Valero, unscathed in 22 fights with all his wins by knockout, spoke with the same tone, saying that he is willing to battle Pacquiao anytime and anywhere.
“Yes, it is now or never. I am ready for Pacquiao, I want Pacquiao. I respect him as a fighter and all that he has done. But, he has never faced anyone like me; a left-handed fighter who is just as fast and strong. I am willing to fight him anywhere in the world and at anytime,” said the reigning WBA 130-pound crown-holder.
However, the leading contender to take on Pacquiao next is WBC super featherweight Juan Manuel Marquez. “Most people want to see a rematch with Marquez,” said American trainer Freddie Roach.
Marquez courageously survived three knockdowns in the first rounds on the way to forge a draw with Pacquiao during their first encounter in 2004.
While Guzman, Valero and Marquez are brazen enough in calling out Pacquiao’s name, they must hurdle first their forthcoming fights before thinking of a megabuck duel with the Filipino punching dynamo.
Guzman is set to face Humberto Soto on November 17 at the Borgata Hotel Casino in
Whoever of them scores the most impressive victory likely gets a ring date with Pacquiao, who is slated to fight next sometine in February or March next year either in
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