Pacquiao targets Romero in January: Return and new promoter

Manny Pacquiao Seeks the Ring and New Challenges

The legendary Manny Pacquiao remains active, both inside and outside the ring. The Filipino boxer, at 46 years old, plans to return to the ring in January and already has a target in sight: WBA welterweight champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero. This fight would mark Pacquiao’s return after his majority draw against the WBC 147-pound champion, Mario Barrios, in July. In that encounter, the International Boxing Hall of Fame Class of 2025 inductee sought to break his own record as the oldest boxer to win a welterweight title.

“We would have loved to fight again before the end of the year, but time didn’t allow it. 2026 will be a new year with new beginnings and, hopefully, a new opponent. I think the perfect time for Manny to make a statement upon his return is January, and I think the perfect opponent is Rolly Romero.”

Sean Gibbons, Pacquiao’s advisor

Sources close to Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs) have confirmed that negotiations have already begun for a fight in January. Outside the ring, Pacquiao is also focused on launching Manny Pacquiao Promotions in the United States. The first card will take place on November 29 at the Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California. This event will mark the professional debut of Pacquiao’s eldest son, Manny “Jimuel” Pacquiao Jr., against an opponent yet to be announced. Pacquiao Jr., 24, has experience in amateur boxing and is currently training at the famous Wild Card Boxing Gym in Los Angeles, under the tutelage of Marvin Somodio.

“It is an honor to bring Manny Pacquiao Promotions to the United States. November 29th marks a fundamental new beginning. Some of my greatest memories took place in the United States rings, and I am proud to now create opportunities for the next generation of champions. With talent-filled events like this, we will highlight rising contenders and provide a platform for fighters to showcase themselves on a global stage.”

Manny Pacquiao

The fight card will be headlined by Elijah Pierce (21-2, 17 KOs) and Lorenzo Parra (23-1-1, 17 KOs) in a 12-round WBO featherweight title eliminator bout.