Pacquiao vs. Marquez: Pac-Man Faces First Lose-Lose Situation of His Career

The fallout from the third installment of Pacquiao vs. Marquez has been tremendous. For the first time in Pacquiao's career, his next move will be a disastrous one. 

Let us examine the Pacquiao that has impressed during his prime. Every single fighter he has fought since Pacquiao vs. Marquez II has been an assured victory and another notch in his championship belt. 

For the first time in a long time, Pacquiao has some tough decisions to make. The next move is not one that ensures victory. In fact, the only right move may be retirement altogether. Let's examine where Pac-Man goes from here. 

1. Juan Manuel Marquez rematch

This would be a ridiculous mistake for a boxer now at the end of his career. One more fight may be all it takes for Marquez to catch his elusive white whale in the ring. 

We saw how badly Pacquiao's prestige took a hit at the near loss. His legacy would be irreparably damaged with a loss to his long-time foe. 

2. Fight Another Fighter

If Pacquiao fights any other boxer beside Floyd Mayweather it will be Pac-Man seen as the scaredy cat. The villain in this classic tale may switch to Pacquiao. 

There is no reason for a boxer that is clearly at his end to fight for another payday or for another easy win. He needs to be tested, and there is only one fighter the people will accept. 

3. Fight Floyd Mayweather

Here is the biggest assumption of the article. Pacquiao may have been against his perfect foe in a counter-punching Marquez, but he still looked slower than he had in years. 

Assuming that Mayweather would be at his peak still, I would have to give this fight to Money May. 

4. Retirement

This may be the best path for Pacquiao to assure his legacy is untarnished. It is also the one I least expect him to take. 

Pacquiao will not take the easy way out. With gas still in the tank, Pac-Man will give us another fight or two. I am not so sure the results will be what he wants.