Manny Pacquiao vs. Juan Manuel Marquez: Marquez Has Nothing to Lose

The much-anticipated matchup between Filipino sensation Manny Pacquiao and top-notch boxer Juan Manuel Marquez will take place on Nov. 12.

In this third bout, it is "Pac-Man" Pacquiao who comes into the match facing a world of pressure.

As is the case with any favorite heading into a match, Pacquiao has the inevitable pressure of having to meet expectations. Yet, it is also the fact that Pacquiao will end up being anywhere from seven to nine pounds heavier than Marquez that is a crucial factor.

"Heavily-Favored Manny Pacquiao Loses to Juan Manuel Marquez Despite Eight-Pound Advantage"

This is the type of headline that could tarnish Pacquiao's career for good.

On the other hand, it is Marquez who will benefit more from a win against Pacquiao.

If Marquez gets the upset over Pacquiao, it will put him on a different level and give him a newly-earned level of respect. Marquez then goes from a solid, well-known boxer to one of the world's best.

Marquez is the underdog in this matchup. As a result, he is going out there pressure-free and with the clear edge, mentally.

A mental advantage will not be enough to take down Pacquiao, by any means. Yet, going into the match, there is no question that Marquez has plenty to gain in this showdown between the two.

At age 38, in the latter stages of his 53-win career, the veteran boxer is easily experienced enough to give Pacquiao a run for his money.

Pacquiao is the favorite and will come out on top, but it is Marquez who has nothing to lose. Pacquiao has a great deal to lose; his reputation is on the line as the heavy favorite and the heavier boxer of the two.