Ryan Garcia could face Manny Pacquiao in an exhibition bout later this year as the Filipino legend prepares for his 2027 rematch with Floyd Mayweather. Pacquiao's promoter confirmed Garcia and Rolly Romero are among the options for a warm-up fight in late 2026.
What's the latest on Pacquiao's schedule?
The long-awaited Pacquiao-Mayweather rematch has been pushed to early 2027, with January as the target date. Jas Mathur, CEO of MP Promotions, revealed the delay comes from unresolved technicalities between the camps. The bout will take place at super welterweight (153-154 lbs), but venue and streaming details remain undisclosed.
Why is Ryan Garcia in the mix?
Mathur confirmed Garcia is a serious contender for Pacquiao's warm-up exhibition. 'Ryan has another fight, so everything's on the table,' he said. 'Ryan will fight Manny, Manny will fight Ryan.' The 25-year-old Garcia, coming off a recent win, would provide Pacquiao with a high-profile test before the Mayweather showdown.
What about Rolly Romero?
Romero, the WBA super lightweight champion, is also under consideration. Mathur stated both fighters are viable options, emphasizing the goal of breaking records. 'All of these people are on the table,' he added. 'It's not an issue, but we have to focus on what's in front of us now.'
When will a decision be made?
No timeline has been set for finalizing Pacquiao's warm-up opponent. Mathur stressed the priority is resolving the Mayweather rematch details first. 'Once that's all said and done, then we anticipate this should take place sometime in early 2027,' he said. Garcia and Romero would likely face Pacquiao in the final quarter of 2026.