Rolly Romero new frontrunner to be next Manny Pacquiao’s next  opponent 

Rolly Romero has reportedly emerged as the top contender to face boxing legend Manny Pacquiao in what could be the Filipino icon’s next bout, following his recent return to the ring against Mario Barrios.

Pacquiao, 46, fought to a majority draw with Barrios in a closely contested battle on July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.

 Despite failing to capture the WBC welterweight title, Pacquiao showed flashes of his old form, particularly in the later rounds, reigniting interest in another fight before he potentially retires for good.

With a rematch against Barrios now appearing unlikely, attention has shifted to Romero, 29, the WBA “Regular” welterweight champion, as the frontrunner to face Pacquiao next. 

Sources close to Pacquiao’s camp have confirmed that discussions have advanced, with Romero seen as a marketable opponent who could deliver both entertainment and strong pay-per-view numbers.

“Rolly Romero would be an unbelievably fun fight and one hell of a promotion,” said Sean Gibbons, Pacquiao’s longtime adviser. “He brings personality, power, and people would tune in. It’s a better option than doing a rematch with Barrios.”

Could we see Manny Pacquiao vs Rolly Romero next for the WBA welterweight title⁉️

If so, who wins this 👇 pic.twitter.com/sk7rxAceEQ

— Source of Boxing (@Sourceofboxing) August 2, 2025

Romero, known for his aggressive style and outspoken demeanor, has been receptive to the idea of facing the Hall of Famer. “A fight with Manny? Who wouldn’t want that?” Romero told BoxingScene. “That’s a Hall of Famer on your résumé. That’s the fastest way into the Hall of Fame, right?”

Romero rose to prominence with wins over Yigit and Anthony Yigit and has fought on major platforms including a high-profile bout with Gervonta “Tank” Davis. His potential matchup with Pacquiao would mark the biggest fight of his career to date.

However, complications remain. Romero is reportedly in ongoing talks to face Ryan Garcia in a December rematch, which could disrupt negotiations with Pacquiao if finalized.

 Meanwhile, Gervonta Davis—another name floated as a possible Pacquiao opponent—has not progressed in talks, with sources describing negotiations as stalled.

Despite the uncertainty, boxing insiders believe Romero is still the most viable option. “Pacquiao probably beats Romero,” said renowned trainer Robert Garcia. “Romero’s less technical than Barrios, but he brings energy and makes it a fight.”

The timing of Pacquiao’s next bout is also under consideration, with some reports suggesting a possible December date to coincide with his 47th birthday.

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