Mexican great Juan Manuel Marquez has turned down an opportunity to make a sensational return to the sport against one of his former rivals.
The former multi-weight world champion announced his retirement from boxing shortly after he defeated Mike Alvarado in the 64th and final outing of his professional career back in May of 2014.
Marquez established himself as one of the most skilled fighters of his generation which played a key role in him racking up victories over the likes of countryman Marco Antonio Barrera and eight-division world champion Manny Pacquiao.
It was announced this week that Filipino icon Pacquiao, who turned 47-years-old back in December, is set to make a return to action against former WBO light-welterweight champion Ruslan Provodnikov in April.
As reported by Chris Mannix on social media, Marquez is one of two fighters that actually turned down the opportunity to face Pacquiao on April 18 in what would have been the fifth showdown between the legendary duo.
Investors in this fight have been hunting for a Pacquiao opponent for months. Juan Manuel Marquez, Tim Bradley both turned them down, per sources. Provodnikov, 42, who has not fought since 2016, gets the call. pic.twitter.com/hfCSSgJTLc
— Chris Mannix (@SIChrisMannix) February 18, 2026
Pacquiao made a shock comeback to boxing last July when he fought to a majority draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios, although it has been argued that the 47-year-old had done enough to be declared the winner and become the oldest welterweight champion of all time.
