If you want the belt, you need to take it, not leave it in the hands of the judges

[InTheNeutralCorner]

Did Baristain really tell Marquez that he was way ahead and not to fight hard? Because it would seem to me that Marquez has come up short (rightly or wrongly) in three other fights, two against Pacquiao and one against John. Thus, that would be the worst possibly advice to give him even if he was up on the cards. Right?

I believe that was how the conversation in Marquez' corner was translated prior to the 10th round, that he is ahead. I don't recall any instructions given for him not to fight hard, JMM appears to have done that on his own. Maybe he thought that he can still win the round or at least make it appear even by being cautious and not taking too much risk.

[Chino]

Did Baristain really tell Marquez that he was way ahead and not to fight hard? Because it would seem to me that Marquez has come up short (rightly or wrongly) in three other fights, two against Pacquiao and one against John. Thus, that would be the worst possibly advice to give him even if he was up on the cards. Right?

I believe that was how the conversation in Marquez' corner was translated prior to the 10th round, that he is ahead. I don't recall any instructions given for him not to fight hard, JMM appears to have done that on his own. Maybe he thought that he can still win the round or at least make it appear even by being cautious and not taking too much risk.

I am going to watch the fight again and see what was said in Manny's corner as he, besides looking exhausted (same reason why he spat his mouth guard), he also looked confused. When the fight ended he even sank his head between his shoulders knowing that it was more than likely that the outcome was not going to favor him. Did you guys see Ariza when they announced the winner? He even made a motion of wiping the sweat off his brow.