First four rounds crucial for Marquez to beat Pacquiao, says Beristain

By on 11:07 AM

Source: gmanews.tv

Juan Manuel Marquez' trainer believes his boxer must survive the first four rounds of the Mexican's third meeting with pound-for-pound king Manny Pacquiao to fare well and perhaps win the November 12 title fight at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas.

"If he (Pacquiao) doesn't hurt us in four rounds, we can be better. We have a good chance of winning the fight," said legendary Mexican trainer Ignacio "Nacho" Beristain, speaking through interpreter Ricardo Jimenez of Top Rank Friday at the Manila Hotel, where Marquez’' entire entourage is billeted.

The first two encounters between Marquez and Pacquiao had a total of four knock downs registered—with the Mexican hitting the canvas.

In a blazing start, the Filipino eight-time world champion sent Marquez down thrice in their classic 2004 title fight, which ended in a controversial draw.

Four years later, Pacquiao again had Marquez reeling on the floor in the third round of their rematch, a factor that obviously helped the Filipino ring icon escape with a highly-debatable split decision.

Beristain, 68, said Marquez had to do what he does best—countering Pacquiao's attacks—and not allow himself to be drawn in a brawl with one of boxing's greatest punchers of all time.

"Manny will always have power. So we can't lose our concentration. We've got to go back to what we've planned for the fight," said Marquez's long-time trainer.

Marquez, Beristain and the rest of the group paid a courtesy call to Mexican ambassador Dr. Tomas Javier Clavillo Ulna in his office in Makati City, where they were treated to quesadillas, tacos, burritos and picadillos.

Shortly after the embassy visit, Marquez decided to stroll and shop at the Greenbelt Shopping Mall where he bought two pairs of shoes at Louis Vuitton and Prada.

They later had dinner at the Midas Hotel hosted by Solar Sports, before finally calling it a day and look forward to Saturday's press tour at the Luneta Grandstand, which serves as the kick off of the four-city event that will have stops in New York, Los Angeles and finally, Mexico.