By Rick Reeno

Reliable sources with knowledge of the negotiations have advised BoxingScene.com that former WBC lightweight champion David Diaz has priced himself out of the running to face Juan Manuel Marquez in a junior welterweight bout on July 16 in Mexico. Two weeks ago, BoxingScene reported that there were issues with the money and the two sides were far apart on the financial terms. I was told that Diaz's manager, Jim Strickland, stood his ground on a high demand for his boxer, and now Marquez Promotions are speaking with several other potential candidates.

Marquez will use his July fight as a tune-up to keep himself sharp for an already scheduled trilogy fight with WBO welterweight champion Manny Pacquiao on November 12, which takes place at 144-pounds.