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Philippines, 20 Feb 2026 |
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Manny Pacquiao Eyes Ring Return in January with Talks Advancing for a Hot Showdown Against WBA Champ Rolly Romero By Carlos Costa PhilBoxing.com Sun, 05 Oct 2025  Pacquiao VS Romero very likely! If it happens this fight would deliver to fans a thrilling ride, pitting Pacquiao's renowned precision, experience and speed against Romero's youth and skills. The Pacman did not win against the taller and tough Mario Barrios, but could he win this one? Our 47-year-old boxing legend, known for his incredible career and deep Christian faith, is targeting this fight against Rolly Romero as he looks to extend his already super amazing and remarkable hall of fame legacy.  Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao (R) connects with a right at Mario Barrios when he challenged Barrios for the WBC welterweight belt last July. Pacquiao's last outing was a majority draw against Mexican-American WBC welterweight world champion Mario Barrios last July, with the Sarangani superstar showcasing his enduring competitiveness despite his advanced age for a boxer. I flew from Cebu to Las Vegas to see Pacquiao winning over Barrios. That did not happen, but it was a good fight. For me, I think the fight was close, but Pacquiao should have been awarded the win (my humble personal opinion). Anyways, let’s continue. Romero, 29, brings youth, popularity and aggression to the fight, coming from a decisive victory over the super popular boxing star Ryan Garcia last May. In that battle, Rolly dropped the unfocused Ryan in round two en route to a clear and well-deserved unanimous decision win. Pacquiao's pursuit of another world title is generating significant talk among boxing fans here in the Philippines and everywhere. If “Pacman” wins (and he has big chances of achieving that), he'd join an elite club alongside Bernard Hopkins and George Foreman as one of the few boxers to capture a world title post-45. Romero's aggressive style clashes intriguingly with Pacquiao's surgical precision and footwork, promising potential fireworks, most likely in Las Vegas.  Rolly Romero (R) defeated Ryan Garcia (L) in his last outing last May, 2025. Rolly bested Ryan that night, but was Ryan at 100%? Rolly bested Ryan that night and that’s alright, but Pacquiao is not Ryan Garcia, Pacquiao is Pacquiao, a superior fighter, despite his age, Diba? Commendable, both fighters, Manny and Rolly, share a deep Christian faith, adding an interesting dimension to their potential fight, which I hope will happen. In fact, Rolly recently spoke about he focusing on strengthening his relationship with God, hinting us about his personal growth. "The only thing I've had on my mind is strengthening my relationship with God... without Him, I'm nothing," an emotional Rolly said to fans, reflecting on his spiritual journey. KNOWING MORE ABOUT ROLLY ROMERO Rolly Romero's life and heritage is quite fascinating, reflecting a rich blend of cultural heritage. Born Rolando Romero on October 14, 1995, in Las Vegas, Rolly’s roots are tied to Cuba. His father, Rolando Romero Sr., is Cuban-born and a three-time National Amateur Boxing Champion in Cuba. His dad was successful in escaping Cuba's communism in 1991, showcasing remarkable courage. Syempre, Romero's father played a big role in shaping Rolly’s interest in sports getting the boy into boxing, teaching him love for boxing and discipline. Rolly’s sister, Angelica Romero, is a seven-time U.S. National Judo Champion, telling us about the family's passion for sports. Indeed, Rolly Romero embodies a blend of Cuban and American influences, shaping his identity and boxing style. What many fans like is the Immigrant Story. His father's escape from Cuba really tells us about perseverance and the struggle to find opportunities for a better life in another country. MANNY PACQUIAO VS ROLLY ROMERO, CAN IT REALLY HAPPEN? Importantly, the popular Sean Gibbons of the Knuckleheads Gym, who is Pacquiao's longtime friend, advisor and MP Promotions President, believes that Rolly Romero is the perfect opponent for the Pacman in January. I agree. "I think the perfect time for Manny to make a statement to come back is January, and I think the perfect opponent is Rolly Romero," Sean told ESPN. And that’s why negotiations for that January fight are already underway. Will Sean’s negotiations succeed? Let’s hope so! This January showdown between Pacman and Rolly isn't just about individual achievement; it's a bridge between boxing's golden past and an uncertain future. Win or lose, Pacquiao vs. Romero promises authentic boxing drama, blending legacy and aspiration. A victory for Pacquiao would write one of boxing's most remarkable comeback stories, and make him the second-oldest world champion in history. Let’s go Manny! PACMAN OUTSIDE THE RING No longer in Philippine politics (at least not for now), Pacquiao is busy launching Manny Pacquiao Promotions in the U.S. According to reports, Pacquiao’s inaugural fight card in the U.S. takes place November 29 at Pechanga Resort Casino in Temecula, California, featuring his son Jimuel's pro debut. That show will be headlined by Elijah Pierce vs. Lorenzo Parra in a WBO featherweight title eliminator. The author of this story is veteran boxing reporter Carlos Costa of Cebu 🇵🇭 carlos512@hotmail.com, WhatsApp +639184538152. Click here to view a list of other articles written by Carlos Costa.  |
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