Pacquiao vs. Marquez 3: Odds and Predictions for Epic Rubber Match

The anticipation for Manny Pacquiao- Juan Manuel Marquez III is approaching larger-than-life proportions.

Nobody has given Pac-man as much trouble as Marquez. Despite being six years Pacqiao's elder, Marquez believes his added strength is going to get him over the hump.

Here are the latest odds with my take on which side to take:

(Lines courtesy of bodog.eu)

Who Wins the Fight: Pacquiao -900, Juan Manuel Marquez +550

Putting down $900 to win a measly $100 is a tough pill to swallow, but it’s the right move to make. Just ask Pacquiao's promoter Bob Arum:

"I look for Manny to win because of the improvement in his right hand. When he fought Marquez the first two times, he was a one-armed fighter. He attacked him with the left hand. Now you can't just concentrate on Manny's left because he hits you just as hard with the right hand."

Obviously he has positive things to say about his fighter, but he is right about Pac-man’s improved right hand.

This is a huge wrinkle that the 38-year-old isn’t prepared for. The speed Pacquiao is now punching at is way too much for Marquez to handle, especially with all of the bulk he has added to his frame.

Prediction: Take Pacquiao

How Many Rounds Will The Fight Go: Over/Under 10.5

The first two fights went the full 12 rounds, why wouldn’t this one?

Marquez has had so much success against Pac-man in the past because he’s patient. He won’t try and connect on the big hit, something Pacquiao thrives on. He is a smarter, more disciplined boxer that excels at taking away Pacquiao's swift combos.

These two are perfect complements to each other, and the fight will end up going the distance for the third time.

Prediction: Take The Over

Manny Pacquiao by Decision or Technical Decision: -500

This is the bet with the most value.

For reasons stated above, this match is going to last 12 rounds.

Like the two previous fights, expect the Pacquiao's quickness to be the story of the early rounds. Yet the toughness and determination of Marquez is going to keep him in the match until the end.

He can take away Pac-man’s speed and turn into a rather boring match. Not great for fans, but perfect for a Pacquiao technical decision.

Prediction: Take Pac-man by Technical Decision