Pacquiao returns to ring January 24 with WBA champion Romero in sight

MANILA, Philippines, October 12 ------ Manny Pacquiao is returning to the ring on January 24, 2026, in the United States. Boxing’s lone eight-division world champion announced his second comeback bout in Las Vegas on social media. Although Pacquiao, already inducted into the sports Hall of Fame, did not mention his opponent, Rolando Romero looms large.

The video announcement was posted by Indistry Media, a global streaming network and entertainment agency. Pacquiao, who’ll be 47 years old on fight night, wants another crown, and Romero’s World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight belt is a logical target.

A few hours after Pacquiao’s announcement made the rounds, Ring Magazine posted a video of Romero throwing combinations to an imagined foe in the streets of London. Viva Promotions then posted a photo of Pacquiao showing off his still well-chiseled physique. “Hello to all my boxing fans. I’m excited to let you know that I will be returning to the ring January 24 in Las Vegas,” Pacquiao said in the video. “It is going to be an exciting and special event. Stay tuned. More news to come on my opponent in the next few days.”

After virtually four years of inactivity, Pacquiao sought Mario Barrios’ World Boxing Council (WBC) welterweight title last July 19 at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. Despite only six months of intense training, Pacquiao did so well that sports pundits thought that he would win. Barrios pulled off a majority draw. Learning from that experience, Pacquiao said he would have a longer training camp, at least eight weeks, for his next bout.

Pacquiao is expected to return to the United States in November as Manny Pacquiao Promotions is making its initial foray in California on November 29, 2025, with his son, Jimuel, making his professional debut.

Source: rappler.com