Manny Pacquiao‘s much anticipated return to the ring has been thrown into doubt, at least against the frontrunner, after a call has been made by the WBA.
The 46-year-old eight division world champion made a sensational comeback to the sport back in July after a four year hiatus, fighting to a majority decision draw against WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios.
Despite a valiant effort from Pacquiao, who was bidding to break his own record as the oldest world welterweight champion in boxing history, two out of the three judges at ringside scored the bout 114-114, whilst the other had it 115-113 in favour of Barrios, who kept the belt.
It was revealed this week that Pacquiao would be making his 74th ring appearance as a professional against an unconfirmed opponent on January 24, with the clear frontrunner being reigning WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero.
That may now be in doubt though, as the WBA have announced that Romero has been ordered to make the first defence of his crown against mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov, meaning Pacquiao could be left searching for an alternative opportunity to become a world champion yet again.
“The World Boxing Association (WBA) Championships Committee has ordered the welterweight world title bout between champion Rolando Romero and mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov, as confirmed through an official communication sent to both parties on Monday, October 13.”
Romero was elevated to full WBA welterweight champion back in August, after former title holder Jaron ‘Boots’ Ennis opted to vacate the belt in preparation for his move up to 154lbs.
‘Rolly’ made his most recent ring appearance against Ryan Garcia back in May, defeating his countryman via unanimous decision at the iconic Times Square in New York City.
