Marquez vs. Katsidis: round-by-round updates | The Fabulous Forum | Los Angeles Times

Mexico’sJuan Manuel Marquezwill make the second defense of his world lightweight titles tonight when he meets Australia’sMichael Katsidisat MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

Marquez (51-5-1, 37 knockouts) stands as Mexico’s proudest world champion, having foughtManny Pacquiaoto a 2004 draw and a 2008 split-decision loss. Marquez proceeded to claim the lightweight belt by defeatingJuan Diazin the 2009 fight of the year.

He took a big pay day to get beat by the far largerFloyd Mayweather Jr. later last year, then returned to the lightweight division and punished Diaz again in a July unanimous decision.

Katsidis (27-2, 22 KOs) has lost to two opponents that Marquez has defeated in recent years–- Diaz andJoel Casamayor–- but he’s won his last four bouts and is fighting in the memory of his brother, who died recently.

Marquez expressed sympathy, but has his sights set on a third showdown with Pacquiao. Any hope of that requires a victory tonight.

Here's round-by-round coverage of the fight:

Round 1:Marquez starts with jabs to the body. He lands a good right to Katsidis’ face. Another. Marquez is blocking Katsidis’ jab. Katsidis sneaks one in. Good right by Marquez. He works for openings. Good overhand right by Marquez. Marquez wins round, 10-9.

 

--Lance Pugmire, reporting from Las Vegas

Photo: Juan Manuel Marquez, left, and Michael Katsidis strike a pose during a news conference on Tuesday in Las Vegas. Credit: Steve Marcus / Reuters

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