Juan Manuel Marquez is planning to return to the ring in June and is interested in facing fellow former world champion Miguel Cotto later this year.
Marquez, who has not fought since scoring a unanimous decision win against Mike Alvarado in May 2014, was recently linked to World Boxing Organization super lightweight champion Terence Crawford.
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Top Rank Promotions CEO Bob Arum recently revealed to BoxingScene that Marquez is planning to fight in the summer in Mexico City. The Hall of Fame promoter is aware that Marquez wants to face Cotto, but he reiterated that the Mexican boxing superstar should stay away from the Puerto Rican and face Crawford in his return bout.
"Marquez is more of a junior welterweight," Arum said. "The idea of him fighting Cotto doesn't make any sense, He's too big."
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Crawford, who will defend his title against Henry Lundy on Saturday, holds a perfect 27-0 record with 19 knockout victories. The 28-year-old could be an intriguing option for Marquez, but Fernando Beltran of Zanfer Promotions told ESPN Deportes that Crawford is not an option for the Mexican legend.
"We do not agree," Beltran said of Arum's desire to arrange a showdown between Marquez and Crawford. "Crawford is completely off the radar, Crawford has not even reached the top."
Beltran added that they see no reason to face Crawford even if the Nebraska native will be able to keep his world title. Marquez's promoter insisted that Cotto is the perfect opponent for Marquez.
"Juan Manuel Marquez is already a legend and wants to go against another legend," Beltran continued. "He would not gain as much, economically and career wise, with Crawford. He would gain much more in both areas with Cotto, and that's who he wants to fight."
If the two camps reach a common ground, BoxingScene reported that the Marquez, who has a 56-7-1 record with 40 knockouts, will likely have one more fight in May or June before facing Cotto in November. Marquez recently told ESPN Deportes that HBO wants to take his fight in June and November.
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