Roach, Ariza predict Marquez out in three

MANILA, Philippines - Juan Manuel Marquez is already being counted out with still 15 days to the fight.

Manny Pacquiao’s trainer, Freddie Roach, was quoted as saying Marquez won’t last two rounds while the conditioning coach, Alex Ariza, said it should be over in three.

Almost everybody is calling for a knockout win by Pacquiao on Nov. 12 at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas – except Pacquiao himself.

“We have studied new techniques and strategies. Still, I cannot say if it’s going to be a knockout,” Pacquiao told Long Beach Boxing Examiner.

The Filipino boxing superstar welcomed the media to the Wild Card Gym last Wednesday, and received so many different questions that his answers almost came alike.

“All questions will be answered in the ring on my fight with Marquez,” said the reigning WBO welterweight champion who’s eager to prove that he’s the better fighter.

Pacquiao can’t seem to hide his feelings on Marquez, who up to this day claims that he won both fights against the Filipino.

“If it’s going to be a knockout, that’s a bonus,” said Pacquiao, out to end all questions on whether Marquez deserved the victory when they fought to a draw in 2004, and in 2008.

Pacquiao won a split decision in their rematch but some people thought he looked stunned when his name was announced as “the new” super featherweight champion.

Bob Arum of Top Rank said it should be more decisive this time.

“It’s all because Pacquaio will demonstrate that his right hand is awful as the left,” said the chief promoter.

“If it’s the same ‘Pacquiao’ that fought Marquez four years ago who will fight him (Marquez) on Nov. 12, it will be a close fight. But, Pacquiao had no right hand four years ago.”

Besides, Pacquiao has been very convincing in beating heavyweights like Joshua Clottey, Antonio Margarito and Miguel Cotto in his recent fights. The 147-lb division is home to Pacquiao.

No wonder the odds suggest that Marquez practically has no chance of winning this fight.