Pacquiao Nears Title Fight With Rolly Romero

Manny Pacquiao, 46, is in advanced talks to challenge WBA welterweight champion Rolando “Rolly” Romero as soon as this December or in January, with Pacquiao’s camp saying negotiations are being finalized. The potential matchup follows Pacquiao’s July majority draw with WBC champ Mario Barrios and would give the Filipino boxer another world-title opportunity as he approaches his 47th birthday. Romero, who recently beat Ryan Garcia, has indicated he’s open to the bout, while critics call him a “paper champion” and say Pacquiao would be leapfrogging WBA mandatory Shakhram Giyasov. Promoters emphasize the fight’s commercial appeal and Pacquiao’s advisers call Romero a stylistic opponent to make a statement. Outside the ring, Pacquiao is launching Manny Pacquiao Promotions in the U.S., headlining an inaugural Nov. 29 card in Temecula that will include his eldest son’s professional debut.