Matchroom keen to bring Manny Pacquiao to Ireland for a potential fight with IBF champion Lewis Crocker

Philippine boxing legend Manny Pacquiao has reunited with longtime former promoter Bob Arum and Top Rank Boxing, fueling speculation around a highly anticipated ring return scheduled for January 2026.

The eight-division world champion was initially linked to a bout with current WBA welterweight titleholder Rolando “Rolly” Romero. The American had publicly expressed interest in facing the Filipino icon, but the matchup has hit a roadblock after the World Boxing Association (WBA) ordered Romero to face his mandatory challenger, Shakhram Giyasov.

With Romero now out of the equation—for the time being—Pacquiao’s team may be forced to look elsewhere for his comeback opponent. One possible name that has emerged is Lewis Crocker, the reigning IBF welterweight champion from Northern Ireland.

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Jamie Conlan, Crocker’s manager, is reportedly open to the idea of a clash with Pacquiao. Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith also confirmed that preliminary interest has been expressed.

“I met with Lewis Crocker and Jamie Conlan earlier in the week. We were discussing what’s next, and there are big opportunities,” Smith said during a media availability. “We’ve had no real discussions yet with Manny Pacquiao, but it could be interesting—imagine bringing Manny to Windsor Park.”

Could we see Lewis Crocker defend his IBF welterweight title against Manny Pacquiao?!🤯#MannyPacquiao | #Boxing | #LewisCrocker pic.twitter.com/ytGR8OIZas

— BoxingScene.com (@boxingscene) October 16, 2025

Smith also noted that the IBF has ordered a final eliminator between Paddy Donovan and Liam Paro, which could affect future title defenses, but made it clear that Crocker’s team is open to a major name like Pacquiao.

“He’s a massive name. You know, he arguably beat Mario Barrios in his last fight—he didn’t get the decision, but it was close. Manny Pacquiao… it doesn’t get much bigger than that,” he added.

Outside the ring, Pacquiao is staying active in the sport through promotional work. He is currently spearheading the 50th anniversary celebration of the “Thrilla in Manila”, the legendary 1975 heavyweight bout between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier. The commemorative event is being organized by Manny Pacquiao Promotions in partnership with the International Boxing Association (IBA), and is being held in Cubao, Quezon City—near the historic site of the original bout.

To mark the occasion, a special fight card featuring top Filipino talent has been scheduled. Headlining the event is WBC minimumweight champion Melvin Jerusalem, who will defend his belt against Siyakholwa Kuse of South Africa. Also on the undercard are Olympian Eumir Marcial and former world champion Marlon Tapales, making it a showcase of elite local talent.

Despite his long list of accolades, the 46-year-old Pacquiao remains driven by history. He is reportedly intent on breaking his own record as the oldest fighter to win a welterweight world title—a feat he first achieved in 2019 when he defeated Keith Thurman at age 40 to capture the WBA welterweight crown.

As fans await confirmation of his next opponent, one thing is clear: Pacquiao is not done yet.

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