Marquez doesn't mind underdog tag, sees tough fight

MANILA, Philippines - Juan Manuel Marquez doesn’t mind being an 8-1 underdog in his forthcoming battle against Manny Pacquiao.

“I don’t care,” said the Mexican even if the fight odds suggest that his chances of winning are slim and almost none.

He said he doesn’t even feel bad about it.

“I don’t feel embarrassed,” Marquez said during yesterday’s official press conference at the Manila Hotel.

Marquez, who turned 38 last Aug. 23, will go up in weight to challenge Pacquiao for his WBO welterweight crown.

The welterweight limit is at 147 pounds but the fight, set Nov. 12 in Las Vegas, is set at a catchweight of 144 pounds.

Marquez has fought at 144 pounds only once in his life, against Floyd Mayweather in 2009. Last July, he knocked out Likar Ramos at 140.

“Don’t worry about the weight. The weight is perfect,” he assured everyone.

“I need to prepare myself. I don’t think about the bets. This is a tough fight for me. But I like this kind of fight,” said Marquez.

Pacquiao agreed by saying it’s going to be a tough fight.

The eight-time world champion in as many weight divisions said Marquez is one that never runs away and loves to engage.

Just like him.

“He’s not like Floyd (Mayweather) who keeps on running. This one likes to go toe-to-toe. That’s what I want. We have similar styles,” said Pacquiao.

“Matibay si Marquez (He’s tough). So my message for him is good luck and you need to train hard so we can give a good fight. I will also do my best in training.”

“My message is the same. He needs to prepare because I will also prepare hard. I’m looking for the victory,” Marquez replied.