The soon 47-year-old Manny Pacquiao warned his millions of followers on Tuesday that he plans to fight against a mystery opponent on early 2026 on January 24.
Opponent still a mystery
Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 Kos) did not say who it is, but it is an open secret that it is the WBA welterweight champion Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero (17-2, 13). This is the easy mark that Manny is expected.
A victory for the 47-year-old Filipine star would break a record for the oldest welterweight champion. It will also send a message of how weak the 147 pound division is now.
There is only WBO champion Brian Norman jr. And not much more. To against Norman Jr. (28-0, 22 CO’s) to get up, would be a bad idea for Manny, because he has too much power and talent. To be by Norman jr. Being knocked out would be a bad way for pacquiao to end.
Pacquiao and Romero are reportedly an agreement to fight on January 24. Rolly is considered a paper champion by many boxing fans and the ideal belt holder for Pacquiao to conquer a world title without losing without losing.
Fans on social media are unhappy about the possibility that Pacquiao is fighting for another world title. They feel that he is being shot a world title without earning it as contenders do. It is seen as the cheapest of the sport, making it look more like a popularity competition.
Giyasov skipped
Which may make the WBA look worse is that it is mandatory Shakram Giyasov Waited for a world title shot since 2023 and was skipped. He should be next, not the 47-year-old Pacquiao.
‘Hello to all my box fans. I am excited to let you know that I will return to the ring on January 24 in Las Vegas. It’s going to be an exciting and special occasion. Stay tuned. More news to come to my opponent in the next few days, ‘said Manny Pacquiao on social media, warning his fans about his next fighting date.
Pacquiao recently came from a four-year retirement and fought on July 19, 2025, to a 12-round against WBC Welterweight Champion, Mario Barrios. There were a lot of angry people about Pacquiao who got a world title in his first fight.
Fans believe this should not have happened. Pacquiao had to defeat the then #1 WBC contender Souleymane Cissokho.
Last updated on 10/08/2025
