Get ready for a thrilling boxing showdown! The WBA has ordered a mandatory match-up for Rolando Romero, but here's the twist: it's a potential roadblock to a much bigger fight.
Romero, the current WBA welterweight champion, has been instructed to face top contender Shakhram Giyasov. This news comes as Romero is rumored to be in line for a highly anticipated bout against the legendary Manny Pacquiao in January.
The WBA's ruling states that Romero must defend his title within a specific timeframe, and that period has already passed. So, while Romero and Pacquiao's fight looms, Romero is now obligated to face Giyasov, the official challenger.
But here's where it gets controversial... Romero's camp, TGB Promotions, is already pushing for the Pacquiao fight, while Giyasov, promoted by Matchroom Boxing, was originally in line to face another opponent.
Romero's journey to the top has been an exciting one. He upset the favored Ryan Garcia in May, winning a unanimous decision and setting himself up for a potential rematch with Devin Haney. But Romero's rise also led to a change in plans for Jaron "Boots" Ennis, who vacated his WBA and IBF titles, allowing Romero to become the full titlist.
And this is the part most people miss: there were whispers of a Romero vs. Pacquiao fight at the start of 2026, but no deal was finalized. Now, with the WBA's ruling, Romero's mandatory defense takes precedence.
Giyasov, an unbeaten 32-year-old with Olympic silver medal credentials, was originally scheduled to face Ennis. However, Ennis opted for a unification bout with Eimantas Stanionis, leaving Giyasov in a holding pattern.
The WBA's attempt to honor the 120-day deadline for the mandatory fight seems unlikely to succeed, given the late October order. It's a race against time, and there's a chance the fight might not happen at all.
Could Giyasov step aside again, allowing Romero and Pacquiao to seal their deal? Only time will tell.
In today's episode, we also explore the future of boxing pay-per-view, focusing on the upcoming Lamont Roach vs. Isaac "Pitbull" Cruz fight. Fans are buzzing with predictions, and we delve into the potential clash of styles.
Join us as we navigate the exciting world of boxing, where mandatory obligations and lucrative opportunities often collide.
What are your thoughts on the Romero vs. Giyasov match-up? And how do you think the future of boxing pay-per-view will unfold? Let's discuss in the comments!
