Manny Pacquiao faces a new challenger: the boxer who is stealing all the spotlight

Manny Pacquiao has once again captured headlines in the boxing world, and now everyone is asking: who will be his next opponent?

After his return to the ring in July 2025 and the majority draw against Mario Barrios, the Filipino legend is preparing for a second fight that promises to thrill fans worldwide.

Manny Pacquiao has also expanded his influence beyond the ring, launching U.S. operations for his boxing promotion company, with two major events scheduled for October and November.

Manny Pacquiao and the race for his next opponent: Rolly Romero emerges as the favorite

According to sources from The Ring, Rolly Romero is currently the favorite to face Manny Pacquiao in his upcoming fight.

Romero combination of youth, speed, and aggressiveness makes him an appealing contender, capable of testing the veteran Filipino’s experience and strategy.

However, Manny Pacquiao is still evaluating other options before finalizing an agreement, as Gervonta Davis and Conor Benn also remain potential challengers.

 

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Una publicación compartida por Manny Pacquiao (@mannypacquiao)

Rolly Romero leads the list of contenders for Manny Pacquiao

Mike Coppinger of The Ring recently revealed on Inside The Ring on DAZN that while Romero leads the race, Davis and Benn are still under consideration.

Manny Pacquiao, aware of both the risk and media impact of his next fight, seeks an opponent who combines spectacle with competitiveness, ensuring each bout continues to reinforce his legacy as one of the greatest boxers of all time.

Alternatives keep the intrigue alive

Gervonta Davis is busy preparing for his upcoming exhibition fight against Jake Paul, set to stream on Netflix on November 14, 2025, while Conor Benn is scheduled for a 12-round bout against Chris Eubank Jr. the following day at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, broadcast live on DAZN PPV.

Despite these schedules, Manny Pacquiao could negotiate dates and strategic agreements to ensure that his second fight after the comeback maintains the excitement of his return to the ring.

The anticipation surrounding the opponent choice keeps fans on edge, and while Romero is the favorite, the possibility that Davis or Benn could earn the opportunity adds to the intrigue.