Manny Pacquiao targeted opponent and return date named

Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao came close to reclaiming the welterweight title back in July. The 46-year-old southpaw now seems poised for another chance.

After being winless since 2019, Pacquiao returned in a controversial challenge for Mario Barrios’ WBC welterweight world title and although his critics were silenced by his display, ‘Pac Man’ could only muster a draw on the scorecards.

Since then, he has signalled his intentions of another attempt at breaking his own record of being the oldest ever welterweight champion, with a fight against WBA titleholder Rolando Romero linked in recent months.

Yet, WBA mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov has been patiently awaiting the opportunity to fight for the title himself and the Uzbek was ordered to face Romero back in October, seemingly putting an end to talk of Romero-Pacquiao.

However, in an interview with FightHype.com, Pacquiao’s advisor, Sean Gibbons, revealed that an exception for the fight may be granted, allowing Romero to proceed with a showdown against boxing’s only eight-division world champion in March of 2026.

“There are discussions for March, Rolly asked the WBA for an exception, so there are ongoing conversations for that fight.”

Gibbons then declared his fighter’s willingness to attempt to unify the belts against Ryan Garcia, if the latter is able to overcome Barrios in February and Pacquiao manages to topple Romero.

“If Ryan beats Barrios, that is a natural fight.”

Gibbons also went on to reveal plans for Pacquiao’s son, Emmanuel Pacquiao Jr., to fight on the Romero-Pacquiao bill. Although, the 24-year-old will hope for a better result than he had on Saturday night, where he drew with Brendan Lally upon his professional debut.