Manny Pacquiao, the legendary Filipino boxer, is once again at the center of attention, but this time, it's not about a potential rematch with Floyd Mayweather. Instead, Pacquiao is being called out for a 'sensational' world title fight, with the possibility of breaking his own record as the oldest welterweight champion in history. The question on everyone's mind is: who will he face next?
Pacquiao's recent comeback against Mario Barrios ended in a draw, but it was enough to keep his hopes alive. The fight, held in July 2025, showcased Pacquiao's enduring skill and determination, even at an age where many athletes are considering retirement. If he had won, he would have extended his record as the oldest welterweight champion, a feat he first achieved in 2019 when he defeated Keith Thurman at the age of 40.
The draw, however, sparked discussions about Pacquiao's future. One potential opponent who has been vocal about facing Pacquiao is Australia's Liam Paro, who recently claimed the IBF belt. Paro's promoter, George Rose, expressed his desire to make Pacquiao his dream fight, stating, 'Manny is the one fight we want to make for Liam. Imagine Manny coming back to Australia. It would be unreal.'
Paro's connection to Pacquiao goes back to 2017 when he was Jeff Horn's sparring partner. Horn famously upset Pacquiao in an upset victory, one of the most controversial decisions of Pacquiao's career. The fight took place in front of a massive crowd at Brisbane's Suncorp Stadium, where Pacquiao lost his WBO welterweight title via unanimous decision. Despite the loss, Pacquiao accused Horn of using illegal tactics, adding fuel to the fire.
Now, with the possibility of another world title fight on the horizon, Pacquiao has a decision to make. He could challenge for a world title at 147lbs again, but mandatory challenger Paddy Donovan may pose a challenge. The question remains: will Pacquiao pursue a blockbuster fight with Paro, or will he wait for a rescheduled Mayweather rematch?
In my opinion, Pacquiao's decision will be influenced by his desire to make history and his eagerness to showcase his skills. The prospect of breaking his own record as the oldest welterweight champion is a significant draw, and the opportunity to fight in Australia, where he has a dedicated fan base, could be a compelling factor. However, the potential legal issues surrounding Mayweather's rematch may also play a role in Pacquiao's decision-making process.
What makes this scenario particularly fascinating is the potential for a Pacquiao-Paro fight to become a global phenomenon. The two boxers have a history, and their styles could create an exciting and highly anticipated bout. Additionally, the potential for a Pacquiao-Mayweather rematch to be rescheduled could create a sense of urgency for Pacquiao to pursue other opportunities.
In conclusion, Manny Pacquiao's future is filled with intriguing possibilities. The prospect of breaking his own record, the desire to showcase his skills, and the potential for a blockbuster fight in Australia all contribute to the excitement surrounding his next move. As an expert commentator, I believe that Pacquiao's decision will shape his legacy and impact the future of boxing. The world is watching, and the outcome will be a significant chapter in the sport's history.
