Arum wants Pacquiao-Marquez III in November

Top Rank chief Bob Arum finally confirmed that Mexican Juan Manuel Marquez is his first choice as Manny Pacquiao's next opponent. Two days before Pacquiao stakes his World Boxing Organization (WBO) welterweight belt against Sugar Shane Mosley, Arum already disclosed the next mega-bout that will involve the world's top pound-for-pound fighter. Arum initially refused to verify earlier reports that the 37-year-old but still crafty Mexican warrior is being lined-up for a third and final showdown with the Filipino boxing superstar. Arum said he already reserved a November 12 schedule for the bout to be held also at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas. Of course, that still all depends on Pacquiao's Saturday (Sunday in Manila) fight against Mosley. A Mosley upset of the Pacman would temporarily put aside the long-awaited third meeting between the eight-time world champion and his old nemesis from Mexico City. "We have a rematch clause (in case Mosley wins) and it takes place within six months," Arum added. If not, then Marquez gets his final crack at finally getting even against the man who defeated him on March 15, 2008. Plan B: Young boxers "Now if Marquez is not available, then we'll be looking at Timothy Bradley or the other younger guys out there," said Arum. Bradley is the reigning World Boxing Council (WBC) and World Boxing Organization (WBO) light-welterweight champion. Pacquiao himself said during Wednesday's final press conference for the Mosley fight that there is a big possibility of facing Marquez next, even saying chances of it finally happening is within 80 percent. As for what weight class, Pacquiao answered, "I don’t know yet." Marquez, a future Hall of Famer, has yet to sign a new contract with old promoter Golden Boy since his previous deal expired last February, but the Oscar De La Hoya-owned promotional outfit has the right to match any offer given by other firms to the durable Mexican. Pacquiao and Marquez fought to a draw in their first ever encounter in 2004 despite the power-punching Filipino sending the Mexican down thrice in a blazing opening round. A rematch between the two took place four years later, which Pacquiao won by a split decision after again knocking down Marquez with a solid left in the third round.