By Miguel Rivera

Former world champion Rafael Marquez (41-9, 37KOs), 41-years-old, says he is not officially retired from the sport and wants one more fight as a farewell to his many fans.

Marquez was in many wars over the years, including his incredible four fight series with Israel Vazquez.

He's been inactive since September of 2013, after suffering an unexpected ninth round stoppage at the hands of Efrain Esquivias. Prior to that fight, in October of 2012, he went to war with Cristian Mijares and suffered a ninth round TKO defeat in a WBC eliminator.

The opponent he wants in his return is 34-year-old hard punching veteran Jhonny Gonzalez (60-10, 50KOs), who won his last two bouts after suffering an upset majority decision loss to Jonathan Oquendo last September in Las Vegas.

"I'm still not retired. I would like to do one more fight, and I would like to do it with Jhonny Gonzalez. That's a fight that I haven't done yet and hopefully something can be done, and that would be the last one for me," said Rafael Marquez to ESPN Deportes.

Marquez, who began his career in 1995, was away from the ring due to eye issue but says the injury has been cleared up and he feels ready to train for a farewell bout.

"I have to check with my doctor, who treated me after the operation on the right eye, but I feel good. I think I can still have that fight and hopefully I will be training with the help of my dad," Marquez said.