Marquez Vs. Pacquiao: Who Really Won?

The rivalry between Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao is one of the most talked-about in boxing history. Four epic fights, each filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments, have left fans debating for years: Who really won? Let's dive deep into each fight, dissect the key moments, and try to settle this once and for all.

The First Encounter: A Draw That Felt Like a Steal

The first fight between Marquez and Pacquiao took place on May 8, 2004, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Pacquiao came out like a raging bull, knocking Marquez down three times in the very first round. It looked like it was going to be a quick night for the Filipino sensation. But Marquez, a true warrior, weathered the storm and began to systematically break down Pacquiao with his counter-punching prowess.

As the fight progressed, Marquez started to find his rhythm, landing crisp shots and frustrating Pacquiao. While Pacquiao had the early advantage with those knockdowns, Marquez controlled much of the remaining fight. When the final bell rang, the anticipation was high. The scorecards, however, were controversial. One judge scored it 115-110 for Pacquiao, another had it 115-110 for Marquez, and the third had it even at 113-113. The result? A split draw.

Many observers felt that Marquez had been robbed. Despite the three knockdowns, Marquez had clearly outboxed Pacquiao for a significant portion of the fight. The draw allowed Pacquiao to retain his WBA and IBF featherweight titles, but it left a lingering sense of injustice and a burning desire for a rematch. This fight set the stage for a rivalry that would captivate the boxing world for years to come. The controversy surrounding the scoring only added fuel to the fire, ensuring that these two warriors would meet again to settle the score.

The Rematch: Pacquiao Edges Out a Controversial Win

Four years later, on March 15, 2008, Marquez and Pacquiao met again, this time at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas. The stakes were even higher, with Pacquiao's WBC super featherweight title on the line. This fight was a tactical battle, with both fighters showcasing their skills and adjustments. Pacquiao, known for his relentless aggression, tried to pressure Marquez, while Marquez, the master counter-puncher, looked to exploit openings and land his signature shots.

The fight was closely contested from the opening bell. Both fighters had their moments, exchanging heavy blows and demonstrating incredible heart and determination. In the third round, Pacquiao landed a left hook that sent Marquez to the canvas. It was a crucial moment that would ultimately influence the outcome of the fight. Marquez, however, showed his resilience, rising to his feet and continuing to battle. He adjusted his strategy, using his superior boxing skills to keep Pacquiao at bay and land effective counter punches.

As the fight went into the later rounds, the tension in the arena was palpable. Both fighters were visibly tired, but neither was willing to give an inch. The final round was a furious exchange, with both Marquez and Pacquiao throwing everything they had left. When the final bell rang, both fighters raised their arms in victory, believing they had done enough to win. The judges' scorecards, however, once again sparked controversy. Two judges scored the fight 115-112 for Pacquiao, while the third had it 114-113 for Marquez. The result? A split decision victory for Pacquiao.

Many boxing experts and fans felt that Marquez had been robbed once again. The knockdown in the third round was the deciding factor for the judges, but Marquez had arguably outboxed Pacquiao for the majority of the fight. The controversy surrounding the decision only intensified the rivalry between these two great fighters, setting the stage for a third encounter.

Third Time's the Charm? Another Close Call

A third fight was inevitable. On November 12, 2011, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, Marquez and Pacquiao faced each other once again. This time, there was no title on the line, but the stakes were higher than ever. Pride, legacy, and the burning desire to finally settle the score fueled both fighters.

The fight was another back-and-forth affair, with both fighters showcasing their incredible skills and determination. Pacquiao, now a seasoned veteran, was still incredibly fast and powerful, while Marquez, known for his technical prowess and counter-punching ability, was as sharp as ever. The fight was a chess match, with both fighters trying to anticipate each other's moves and exploit any weaknesses.

Pacquiao seemed to have gained the upper hand in the middle rounds, landing some powerful shots and pushing Marquez back. However, Marquez weathered the storm and came back strong in the later rounds, landing some clean counter punches that rattled Pacquiao. The final rounds were filled with drama, as both fighters dug deep and gave it their all. When the final bell rang, the crowd was on its feet, eagerly awaiting the judges' decision.

Once again, the scorecards were controversial. The judges scored the fight 114-114, 115-113, and 116-112, awarding Pacquiao a majority decision victory. Many observers felt that Marquez had been robbed for the third time. The fight was incredibly close, and many believed that Marquez had done enough to win. The controversy surrounding the decision only added to the legend of this epic rivalry, making a fourth fight almost inevitable.

The Knockout: Marquez Finally Gets His Revenge

The fourth fight, on December 8, 2012, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, was the culmination of a decade-long rivalry. Marquez and Pacquiao had shared the ring three times before, with each fight ending in controversy. This time, however, there would be no doubt. This time, Marquez would leave no room for interpretation. He was coming for the knockout.

The fight started as a tactical affair, with both fighters feeling each other out. Pacquiao, known for his aggressive style, was looking to close the distance and land his powerful combinations. Marquez, the master counter-puncher, was waiting for his opportunity, patiently studying Pacquiao's movements and looking for an opening. The tension in the arena was palpable, as everyone knew that this could be the final chapter in this epic saga.

In the third round, Pacquiao landed a left hook that sent Marquez stumbling. It looked like Pacquiao was about to take control of the fight, but Marquez weathered the storm and came back strong. In the fifth round, Marquez landed a right hand that stunned Pacquiao, but Pacquiao quickly recovered. The fight was a back-and-forth battle, with both fighters having their moments.

Then, in the sixth round, with just seconds remaining, Marquez landed the perfect punch. As Pacquiao lunged forward, Marquez unleashed a thunderous right hand that caught Pacquiao flush on the chin. Pacquiao crumpled to the canvas, out cold. The arena erupted in a frenzy as Marquez stood over his fallen rival, finally victorious. There was no need for judges' scorecards this time. Marquez had finally gotten his revenge, silencing the doubters and cementing his place in boxing history.

The knockout was a stunning end to one of the greatest rivalries in boxing history. It was a moment that will be replayed for years to come, a testament to the skill, determination, and heart of both fighters. Marquez had finally achieved what he had been striving for all along: a definitive victory over Manny Pacquiao.

So, Who Really Won?

Looking back at the four fights, it's clear that the rivalry between Juan Manuel Marquez and Manny Pacquiao was one of the most evenly matched in boxing history. Each fight was filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. While Pacquiao officially won two of the fights (with one draw), many observers believe that Marquez was robbed in at least two of those encounters.

Ultimately, the question of who really won is a matter of opinion. Some will point to Pacquiao's official record, while others will argue that Marquez was the better fighter overall. What is undeniable is that both fighters were incredibly skilled, determined, and courageous. They pushed each other to their limits and created a rivalry that will be remembered for generations.

Perhaps the best way to look at it is that both Marquez and Pacquiao won in their own way. Pacquiao achieved great fame and fortune, becoming one of the biggest stars in boxing history. Marquez, on the other hand, finally earned the respect and recognition he deserved, silencing his doubters and cementing his legacy as one of the greatest counter-punchers of all time. In the end, their rivalry was a testament to the beauty and brutality of boxing, a reminder that anything is possible in the squared circle.

Whether you believe Marquez won more fights or not, his knockout victory in the fourth fight is an undeniable statement. It's a symbol of perseverance, skill, and the sweet taste of long-awaited vindication. Both fighters gave us incredible memories, and their rivalry will continue to be debated and celebrated by boxing fans around the world. Guys, it was one heck of a ride!