After a long and historic career as possibly the greatest Mexican fighter of all time, Juan Manuel Marquez is seriously considering retirement at the age of 41. Marquez' last bout was against Mike Alvarado in April, a fight in which fans saw Marquez come out on top, winning in 12-rounds. With his latest victory it's hard to argue that Marquez may be stepping away from the ring due to his age and skill set.

Even at 41 years old, there are still rumors and hopes that Marquez and Pacquiao will meet in the ring for a fifth-time. However with Marquez' age getting into the 40's, it may be more realistic for Pacquiao to set his sights on Mayweather. Although Marquez has lost two questionable fights against Pacquiao and fought to a draw in the third, his sixth-round knock out in their fourth battle was unquestionably the highlight moment.

Marquez opened up about his future fighting plans with Boxing News in a special interview that featured Marquez dawning a suit, but still with his ferocious nature imbedded deep within his eyes. "Right now I need to take my time because it is a hard decision," Marquez said. "Maybe I'll retire, maybe I'll continue, but I need time, because it is a hard decision."

When asked about the time frame of his difficult decision, Marquez was quick to say that it could possibly be quicker than most fans would hope. "I don't know, I tell you, it is a hard decision, maybe two months, I don't know. "When I have made up my mind, I need to feel great about it. If I continue, I will choose the best option, because there are options for me. But if I retire it will be because it was the best option."

Marquez went on to discuss some of the young fighters who he could possibly face off against. "Kell Brook is a great champion and Amir Khan is a great champion," said Marquez. "They're both good fighters. Brook was great beating Shawn Porter but right now he has an injury, and he needs to take the time to recover."

Marquez closed with a summation that seemed to spell out his entire life.

"Being a boxer is my job, the ring is my place," he said with a smile. "But, now, I need to take my time."