Manny Pacquiao could be back in the ring before the end of 2025 — and PBC’s Al Haymon already has a three-strong hitlist for the welterweight’s next move.
In the wake of Pacquiao’s razor-tight draw with WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios on July 19, World Boxing News can confirm that Premier Boxing Champions is targeting three names for a potential pay-per-view return before the year is out.
Gervonta ‘Tank’ Davis, Rolly Romero, and a rematch with Barrios top the shortlist.
The trio holds very different options for Pacquiao, with all three being bankable names for an in-house PBC show.
Now that PAC IS BACK, who’s next?! pic.twitter.com/zylDCC08ci
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) July 23, 2025
Pacquiao’s choices begin with his number one target, as right-hand man Sean Gibbons told WBN exclusively before the Barrios fight.
Gervonta Davis, a current pound-for-pound star, is Pacquiao’s top target if the WBA lightweight champion can stay out of trouble and in the ring.
A rematch with Lamont Roach has stalled, possibly due to the Pacquiao possibility, with a battle one of the hottest potential events of the year.
Manny Pacquiao’s Next Fight Options: Tank Davis | The nuclear option A fight with Gervonta Davis would be nothing short of explosive. The unbeaten knockout artist has long expressed interest in facing Pacquiao, who remains a draw despite turning 47 in December.
For Haymon, this would be a mega-event bridging generations, and could test how much Pacquiao has left after a nearly four-year layoff and a split draw in his July return.
Rolly Romero | The wildcard Romero offers intrigue and chaos. Known for his unfiltered trash talk and awkward-but-effective style, Romero might give Pacquiao the stylistic opening he needs to shine.
But with Pacquiao pushing 50, nothing is guaranteed, and Rolly’s physicality would pose serious questions.
Manny Pacquiao and Mario Barrios fight to a draw on Prime Video PPV Esther Lin Mario Barrios II | Unfinished business A second fight with Barrios makes sense for all parties. Their July bout ended in a draw, with both men claiming victory. The WBC welterweight title remains in limbo, and fans want clarity. Pacquiao, never one to leave questions unanswered, may wish to settle the score once and for all.
Legacy play or one last run?
Pacquiao’s team has not publicly commented on Haymon’s list, but insiders suggest the Filipino icon is open to all three bouts, depending on timing, recovery, and negotiations.
What’s clear is this: Al Haymon is not wasting time. Pacquiao remains big business. And whether it’s Tank, Rolly, or a return with Barrios, the fighting legend’s next act is already in motion.
