Mexican great Juan Manuel Marquez has named the toughest opponent that he ever shared a ring with.
Marquez competed as a professional for 21 years between 1993 and 2014, winning world titles in four weight classes along the way.
He racked up an impressive 56 victories as a professional during his tenure, defeating the likes of countryman Marco Antonio Barrera and Filipino great Manny Pacquiao amongst many others.
Marquez faced Pacquiao on four occasions within an eight year period, although he was unable to secure a victory over the eight-division world champion until their fourth and final encounter in 2012.
Speaking to The Ring Magazine, Marquez named Pacquiao as the toughest opponent he ever crossed paths with, as he claims the Filipino great was able to take a ‘good shot’ during their four memorable bouts.
“Manny Pacquiao. He took a good shot and he always returned stronger, except in our final fight when I landed a perfect punch.”
After their first showdown ended in a controversial draw, Pacquiao produced wins over Marquez in their second and third meetings before he suffered a devastating sixth round knockout defeat to the Mexican great in December of 2012.
Pacquiao has proved himself to be one of the best fighters to have ever graced the sport throughout the course of his storied career, winning world titles in divisions ranging from flyweight to super-welterweight over the years.
He made a shock return to the sport last July, fighting to a closely-fought majority draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
