Marquez vs. Alvarado Headlines May 17 HBO Card; Victor Battles Pacquiao-Bradley Winner

Who will win: Marquez or Alvarado? Please tell us below in the comments section. | Photo Courtesy: Top Rank

Being billed as an official 12-round WBO welterweight title elimination bout, the winner is assured a shot at the victor of April 12’s Manny Pacquiao vs.Timothy Bradley, Jr. rematch.

“The opportunity to go back and fight at the Forum where I developed as a professional fighter was too great to pass up,” said Marquez (55-7-1, 40 KOs) in a press release. “I expect a tough fight against Mike Alvarado and one that the fans will truly enjoy.”

Marquez, of Mexico City, last saw action in a split decision loss to Bradley in October of last year. Prior to that tussle, Marquez handed Pacquiao a brutal sixth-round knockout.

“I am so excited. We have been training already for four weeks. Marquez has always been on our radar and he is the one I always wanted to fight,” said Alvarado, of Denver, Colo. “This fight is my redemption to all of my fans. I know how important this fight is. What a fight with such a reward -- to fight the winner of Pacquiao vs Bradley. This is an incredible opportunity. I will be fully prepared to fight Marquez on May 17.”

Alvarado holds a professional record of 34-2, with 23 KOs.

“Marquez vs. Alvarado should be a battle from bell to bell. Both really need this fight and that will make for an exciting encounter,” declared promoter Bob Arum.