Pacquiao vs. Marquez 3: Pacquiao's Size Will Keep Marquez from Upset

Both Manny Pacquiao and Juan Manuel Marquez met their weight of 144 pounds on Friday, so tonight's fight is on. 

Marquez came in at 142; Pacquiao, 143.  For Pacquiao, that's not a huge problem. 

As a matter of fact, the problem for Pacquiao came in the first two fights vs. Marquez, which were both fought at lower weights.  But now that we're up to 144, how will the fighters respond?

I am not concerned with Marquez.  In seeing some of those weigh-in pictures, I have no reason to doubt that he'll be in shape.  His ability to land a good punch won't be a problem.

I am more worried about what he will do to prevent Pacquiao's punches.

There is no way around it.  When you're fighting at a greater weight than you're used to, you're just not going to move around as quickly. 

There's not anything particularly deep about what I just said—the bigger you are, the slower you will be.

That applies to Pacquiao too, except this is his normal weight.  He won't have to make any adjustments. 

The last problem for Marquez is: How will he take a punch from Pacquiao who is at his normal weight? 

The bigger the person, the more powerful the punch.

Now, all of this logic applies for Pacquiao as well, but he's used to it.  He's a true welterweight. He's used to punching and taking punches from welterweights. 

Pacquiao is in his element tonight, and against a fighter of Pacquiao's caliber, Marquez is going to have a tough time.

So, while I am not calling for an early round knockout, I am saying that this fight sets up very well for Pacquiao to win.  Look for him to get out to an early lead and then pick his spots for the rest of the night. 

No, I am not calling for a knockout, but I am not expecting a close decision either.

For the latest news and updates on Pacquiao Vs. Marquez, and for all the latest news and insight on all things boxing, be sure to check out Bleacher Report's Boxing Central.