Manny Pacquiao’s Quest for History Continues: Filipino Icon to Fight Again in January
MANNY PACQUIAO – The fighting pride of the Philippines isn’t hanging up his gloves just yet — Manny Pacquiao is officially making his ring comeback early next year.
Manny Pacquiao is not done fighting.
The Filipino boxing legend has officially announced that he will return to the ring on January 24, 2026, in Las Vegas — the same city where he made his comeback last July after four years of retirement to face Mario Barrios.
In a video released by Indistry Media, Pacquiao (62-8-3, 39 KOs), who will turn 47 in December, personally shared the news with his fans. “Hello to all my boxing fans. I’m excited to let you know that I will be returning to the ring January 24th in Las Vegas,” he said in the clip, which has since gone viral on social media platforms.
While his next opponent has yet to be confirmed, World Boxing Association (WBA) welterweight champion Rolly Romero (17-2, 13 KOs) appears to be the leading candidate. Romero’s aggressive fighting style and current title status make him a strong favorite to face Pacquiao in what could be a blockbuster bout.
During a media appearance at the “Thrilla in Manila 2” countdown event last week, Pacquiao confirmed that discussions with Romero’s camp are already in progress.
“[We are] still negotiating, but we’re just finalizing it,” he said, hinting that a deal could soon be sealed.
If the fight pushes through, Pacquiao will aim to make history once more by becoming the oldest welterweight champion in boxing history — a record he already holds after defeating Keith Thurman in 2019 at age 40 for the same WBA title.
🚨BREAKING: Manny Pacquiao is back‼️
📅January 24, 2025
📍Las Vegas"Hello to all my boxing fans! I'm excited to let you know I will be returning to the ring January 24 in Las Vegas."
🥊Rolly Romero is the rumored opponentpic.twitter.com/LZEwlzlywt
— Alan Dawson (@AlanDawsonSport) October 7, 2025
In his most recent fight last July 19 against Barrios, Pacquiao came close to regaining championship glory. The thrilling match at the MGM Grand Garden Arena ended in a majority draw, allowing Barrios to retain the WBC welterweight crown.
Despite the setback, Pacquiao’s hunger for victory and legacy remains undiminished.
“It is going to be an exciting and special event. Stay tuned, more news to come on my opponent in the next few days. Thank you everyone,” he said, promising fans that his comeback bout will be one to remember.
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