Here’s a bombshell for boxing fans: Rolly Romero is trying to skip the line to fight Manny Pacquiao, leaving Shakhram Giyasov in the lurch. Yes, you heard that right. Despite Giyasov’s long wait as the WBA’s No. 1 welterweight contender, Romero has requested an exemption to face Pacquiao instead of honoring his mandatory obligation. But here’s where it gets controversial: is this a fair move, or is Romero sidestepping a tougher challenge? Let’s break it down.
Shakhram Giyasov, the welterweight powerhouse from Uzbekistan, has been patiently biding his time for a shot at the WBA 147lb title. He even stepped aside to let Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Eimantas Stanionis unify the WBA and IBF titles, hoping to face the winner. Ennis emerged victorious, and since both Giyasov and Ennis are under Eddie Hearn’s Matchroom Boxing, it seemed like Giyasov’s moment was finally here. But then, plot twist: Ennis moved up to 154lbs, and Romero, holder of the lesser WBA regular title, was elevated to full world champion status. Giyasov remains the mandatory challenger, but Romero appears more interested in a high-profile bout with Pacquiao, who’s eyeing another welterweight title run after his draw with Mario Barrios in July.
And this is the part most people miss: Eddie Hearn, Giyasov’s promoter, has openly criticized Romero’s exemption request, calling it an unfair maneuver. “Shakhram has been waiting and waiting,” Hearn told BoxingScene. “We believe the WBA should not allow this special exemption.” Giyasov’s team even sent a formal letter to the WBA, vehemently opposing Romero’s request. Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith echoed the sentiment, emphasizing Giyasov’s dedication: “Shakhram just wants to fight for the world title. It doesn’t matter who the opponent is. He deserves this opportunity, and we’ll push the WBA hard to make it happen.”
Now, let’s shift gears to another hot topic: Will Eddie Hearn block a Devin Haney vs. Conor Benn fight? Paulie Malignaggi isn’t convinced Hearn will greenlight the matchup, and in today’s episode, we dissect the potential roadblocks. Is it a promotional clash, or is there more to the story? Tune in to find out.
Here’s the bigger question: Is Romero’s move a strategic career choice or a dodge? Pacquiao’s name carries weight, but does it justify bypassing Giyasov? And what does this mean for the integrity of mandatory title defenses? Let’s spark a debate—do you think Romero should get his Pacquiao fight, or should he face Giyasov first? Drop your thoughts in the comments, and let’s keep the boxing world talking!
