By John F. McKenna (McJack): Last Saturday night World Boxing Organization (WBO), WBA and Ring Lightweight Champion Juan Manuel Marquez (53-5-1, 39 KO’s) knocked out Likar Ramos (24-4, 18 KO’s) in their fight in Cancun, Mexico.

Based on Marquez’ quick demolition of Ramos, numerous articles have been written suggesting that he is a viable opponent for WBO Welterweight Champion Manny Pacquiao (53-3-2, 38 K0’s), who he fights at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas on November 12.

Marquez victory over Likar did little to assure hardnosed boxing observers that he is ready for Pacquiao. Ramos’ record looks impressive on paper but there is nothing to indicate that he should have ever been in the same ring with a fighter of Marquez’ caliber. Most of Ramos’ fights were against weak opposition.

Knocking out Ramos in the first round did not answer any of the questions boxing fans have about Juan’s stamina or his staying power over a long fight. Marquez will turn 38 on August 23 and the only way he can truly be tested is against an opponent who will take him into the later rounds and not fall down the first time he is hit. I’m sure that Marquez’ legions of fans were thrilled at his performance and point to his punching power against Ramos as proof that he is not on a downward slide in his career.

Top Rank Promoter Bob Arum did his best to convince boxing fans that Shane Mosley still had the ability to be competitive in his May 7 matchup with Pacquiao. Once he tasted the power of Pacquiao when he was floored in the 3rd round, however Shane went into survival mode. Arum will repeat the same kind of sales pitch for Marquez – Pacquiao that worked so well for Pacquiao – Mosley.

“Dinamita” was competitive to say the least in his first two fights with “Pacman”. Many boxing fans think that Marquez won at least one of those two fights.

One must keep in mind when analyzing the Marquez – Pacquiao Trilogy that Marquez is now 3 ½ years older than he was when they last met. Also, Pacquiao has gotten bigger, packing on pounds of muscle while retaining all of his blazing speed. Pacquiao’s skills have improved in every aspect and he is still in the prime of his career.

Marquez is the epitome of the great Mexican warrior and will give his last opportunity at Manny Pacquiao his best shot. It will be an interesting fight to watch with both fighters wanting to make a statement to enhance their legacy in boxing history.