Pacquiao Vs Marquez: Who Actually Won?

The rivalry between Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez is one of the most talked about in boxing history, guys. Spanning four epic fights from 2004 to 2012, each battle was filled with drama, controversy, and unforgettable moments. But the biggest question everyone always asks is, "Who actually won?" Let's dive deep into each fight, break down the results, and try to make sense of one of boxing’s greatest feuds.

The First Fight: A Controversial Draw

The first clash between Pacquiao and Marquez took place on May 8, 2004, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This fight immediately set the stage for what would become a legendary rivalry. Marquez, the more experienced fighter at the time, was the defending WBA and IBF featherweight champion. Pacquiao, on the other hand, was rapidly rising as a young, hungry lion in the boxing world.

From the opening bell, Pacquiao came out swinging with his trademark aggression and speed. He knocked Marquez down three times in the very first round. It looked like it was going to be a short night for Marquez, but he showed incredible heart and resilience, surviving the onslaught and making it out of the round. This display of toughness would become a hallmark of his fights against Pacquiao.

As the fight progressed, Marquez began to find his rhythm. He used his superior boxing skills, counter-punching ability, and ring generalship to slowly claw his way back into the fight. Pacquiao's early dominance faded as Marquez started landing more frequently and effectively. By the middle rounds, it was clear that Marquez had weathered the storm and was now dictating the pace.

The later rounds saw a tactical battle, with both fighters having their moments. Pacquiao's power and speed were still a threat, but Marquez's precision and ring smarts kept him in the game. When the final bell rang, it was anyone’s guess who had won. Many observers felt that Marquez had done enough to win the fight after surviving the disastrous first round, but Pacquiao’s early knockdowns were a significant factor.

The judges’ scorecards reflected the close and competitive nature of the fight. One judge scored it 115-110 for Pacquiao, another had it 115-110 for Marquez, and the third scored it 113-113, resulting in a split draw. The result was met with immediate controversy. Most boxing analysts and fans believed that Marquez had been robbed of a victory. The feeling was that the early knockdowns had unfairly swayed the judges in Pacquiao's favor, despite Marquez's strong performance throughout the rest of the fight. This controversial draw set the stage for their future encounters, fueling the rivalry and leaving fans eager for a definitive resolution.

The Second Fight: Pacquiao Takes a Close Decision

Four years later, on March 15, 2008, Pacquiao and Marquez 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. Both fighters had evolved since their first encounter. Pacquiao had become a global superstar, known for his incredible speed and power, while Marquez had solidified his reputation as a technically brilliant and supremely conditioned fighter.

The rematch was another closely contested battle. Pacquiao started strong, using his speed and angles to land punches and keep Marquez on the defensive. However, Marquez, as always, remained composed and began to find his range as the fight wore on. He was able to time Pacquiao's attacks and land effective counter punches, frustrating Pacquiao’s attempts to dominate the fight.

A key moment in the fight came in the third round when Pacquiao landed a left hand that sent Marquez to the canvas. It was a flash knockdown, and Marquez quickly got back to his feet, protesting that he had been pushed. Replays seemed to support Marquez’s claim, but the knockdown stood, giving Pacquiao a significant advantage on the scorecards.

Marquez continued to fight back with his characteristic grit and determination. He used his jab effectively and landed some beautiful combinations, showcasing his technical prowess. Pacquiao, however, never stopped coming forward, throwing punches in bunches and keeping the pressure on Marquez. The fight was a see-saw battle, with both fighters having their moments of success.

The final rounds were filled with intense exchanges. Both fighters dug deep, knowing that the fight was on the line. Pacquiao’s relentless aggression was met by Marquez’s sharp counter-punching and ring generalship. When the final bell rang, both fighters looked exhausted but proud of their performance.

The judges’ scorecards were once again the subject of debate. Two judges scored the fight 115-112 for Pacquiao, while the third had it 114-113 for Marquez. Pacquiao won by a split decision, but the controversy surrounding the result was immediate and widespread. Many observers felt that Marquez had done enough to win, pointing to his cleaner punches and superior defense. Others argued that Pacquiao’s aggression and the knockdown were enough to give him the edge. Regardless, the close decision only intensified the rivalry and increased the demand for a third fight.

The Third Fight: Pacquiao Edges Out Another Close Win

The third installment of the Pacquiao-Marquez saga took place on November 12, 2011, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This time, Pacquiao was the WBO welterweight champion, and Marquez was determined to finally get the victory that he felt he deserved. The fight was highly anticipated, with fans around the world eager to see if Marquez could finally solve the Pacquiao puzzle.

The fight followed a familiar pattern. Pacquiao came out aggressively, trying to overwhelm Marquez with his speed and power. Marquez, however, was well-prepared and ready for Pacquiao’s attacks. He used his jab effectively and landed some beautiful counter punches, frustrating Pacquiao’s attempts to dominate the fight. The early rounds were close, with both fighters having their moments of success.

As the fight progressed, Marquez seemed to be gaining momentum. He was able to anticipate Pacquiao’s attacks and land punches that slowed Pacquiao down. Marquez’s accuracy and timing were exceptional, and he was able to control the distance and dictate the pace of the fight. Pacquiao, however, never stopped trying, continuing to press forward and throw punches.

The middle rounds saw some intense exchanges, with both fighters landing some heavy shots. Pacquiao’s power was evident, but Marquez was able to absorb the punches and fire back with his own combinations. The fight was a tactical battle, with both fighters making adjustments and trying to gain an advantage.

The later rounds were filled with drama. Both fighters knew that the fight was on the line, and they gave it their all. Pacquiao landed some good shots, but Marquez seemed to be getting the better of the exchanges. Marquez’s counter-punching was particularly effective, and he was able to land some clean shots that shook Pacquiao.

When the final bell rang, both fighters were exhausted but confident that they had won. The atmosphere in the arena was electric as everyone waited for the judges’ scorecards. The decision was once again controversial. Two judges scored the fight 116-112 and 115-113 for Pacquiao, while the third had it 114-114, resulting in a majority decision for Pacquiao. The crowd erupted in boos, and many observers felt that Marquez had been robbed once again. The close decision only added fuel to the fire, and the demand for a fourth fight was immediate.

The Fourth Fight: Marquez Finally Gets the Knockout

The fourth and final fight between Pacquiao and Marquez took place on December 8, 2012, at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. This fight was billed as "Judgment Day," and it lived up to its name. After three controversial decisions, both fighters were determined to leave no doubt in this encounter.

The fight started with both fighters trading blows. Pacquiao was aggressive, trying to use his speed and power to overwhelm Marquez. Marquez, however, was calm and composed, waiting for his opportunity to counter. The early rounds were fast-paced and exciting, with both fighters having their moments of success.

As the fight progressed, Pacquiao seemed to be gaining control. He was landing more frequently and effectively, and Marquez appeared to be slowing down. In the fifth round, Pacquiao knocked Marquez down, and it looked like the fight might be coming to an end. However, Marquez showed incredible resilience and got back to his feet, determined to continue fighting.

Then, in the sixth round, the unthinkable happened. Pacquiao was coming forward, looking to finish the fight, when Marquez landed a perfect counter right hand that caught Pacquiao flush on the chin. Pacquiao went down hard, landing face-first on the canvas. He was knocked out cold, and the fight was over.

The arena erupted in a frenzy. Marquez had finally done it. After three close and controversial losses, he had finally defeated Pacquiao in convincing fashion. The knockout was one of the most dramatic in boxing history, and it marked the end of an era. Marquez had proven that he was a worthy rival to Pacquiao and that he had the skills and determination to beat him.

So, Who Really Won?

Looking at the overall record, Manny Pacquiao officially won two fights, Juan Manuel Marquez won one, and one ended in a draw. However, the narrative is far more complex. Many believe Marquez was unfairly judged in at least two of those fights, arguing he should have been declared the victor.

• Objectively: Pacquiao has more wins in the series. But boxing isn't always objective.
• Subjectively: Many fans and analysts argue Marquez was the superior boxer, even in the losses. His counter-punching and tactical brilliance often shone through.

Ultimately, the Pacquiao-Marquez rivalry is a testament to the beauty and controversy of boxing. It’s a series of fights where the official record doesn’t fully tell the story. Whether you believe Pacquiao was the rightful winner or Marquez was robbed, one thing is certain: their four battles will forever be etched in boxing history, sparking debate among fans for generations to come. What do you guys think?