In the lead up to the historic fourth fight between Israel Vazquez and Rafael Marquez, many speculated on the possibility of a fifth fight should Marquez even the score at 2 wins apiece. Both sides were open to the possibility before the fight. After Marquez's three round destruction of Vazquez Saturday night, we were left to wonder if a fifth fight would become a reality. Most commented on the long-term health of both men, who have given so much and left so much behind in the ring. A fifth fight, while it may have been great to watch, was something that most people weren't sure they wanted to see.
In the press conference following the fight, promoter Gary Shaw put an end to the speculation, stating that he wasn't interested in a fifth fight between Marquez and Vazquez. Shaw said his first concern was the health of both fighters. Shaw also spoke on behalf of Showtime's Ken Hirschman, which for now, should put an end to the speculation. "He's (Ken Hirschman) not supportive, basically, of doing a fifth fight. It's up to the fighters," Shaw would say of Hirschman.
Yet another shovel of dirt on the casket of the idea of a fifth fight between the two is the possibility of Vazquez hanging up the gloves in retirement. Vazquez was asked about his future plans, and if retirement was an option at this time. "I really believe that I need to review with my family and think about it. I don't think in the three rounds that I gave, before the stoppage, I don't think that I was done, but I'm going to think about it and get together with my family and make a decision," Vazquez stated.