Manny Pacquiao is gearing up for yet another return to the boxing ring, with talks now in the final stretch for a January 2026 showdown against WBA welterweight titleholder Rolly Romero.
The eight-division world champion confirmed that negotiations are in the final stages, with both camps ironing out details that could mark Pacquiao’s first fight in over a year. “Still negotiating, but we’re just finalizing it,” he said during a press event promoting the 50th anniversary of the legendary Thrilla in Manila bout later this month.
Now 47 and still defying age, Pacquiao continues to chase history. His last outing—a thrilling draw against WBC champion Mario Barrios—saw him outbox a much younger, taller opponent despite a four-year layoff. Many observers believed Pacquiao had done enough to win, though the decision left him short of becoming the sport’s second-oldest world champion.
If finalized, the Romero fight would pit the Filipino icon against an opponent 17 years his junior. Romero, 30, captured the WBA (Regular) welterweight belt last May with a unanimous decision victory over Ryan Garcia in New York’s Times Square. He was later elevated to full champion status after Jaron Ennis vacated the WBA (Super) title.
For Pacquiao, the fight carries personal history: the WBA (Super) crown Romero now holds once belonged to him. Pacquiao earned it after defeating Keith Thurman in 2019 before losing it to Yordenis Ugas in 2021—a bout that marked his last official appearance before his brief retirement.
If the deal is sealed, Pacquiao’s return will not only be another chapter in his storied career but also a statement that even at 47, the Pacman still refuses to fade quietly into the shadows.