Undefeated WBA welterweight champion Rolly Romero is expressing his dissatisfaction with boxing legend Manny Pacquiao, claiming that talks for a potential fight between them ultimately fell apart because Pacquiao’s team allegedly used him for publicity.
Romero, who recently secured a significant victory over Ryan Garcia, has been vocal about feeling like he is being avoided by other top fighters. He stated in an interview with ToonieBet that he considers himself “the most avoided fighter in boxing” and has been offered “great deals” and “great splits” that were acknowledged as good money, yet opponents still refuse to face him.
A major source of Romero’s frustration stems from the failed negotiations with Manny Pacquiao. Reports from late 2025 indicated that talks for a January fight were underway, but the WBA ultimately ordered Romero to face mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov. By early 2026, it was clear the Pacquiao fight would not materialize after the sanctioning body refused to postpone Romero’s mandatory defense.
Romero believes Pacquiao’s camp engaged in discussions for two months, with Pacquiao continuously demanding more money despite being unable to generate the requested amount. “The deal was already dead. They just used me for clout,” Romero stated, suggesting that the public buzz around a potential fight was the primary objective rather than a genuine intent to compete.
Despite his current inactivity, Romero insists he is not boxing for financial gain but rather for legacy and the desire to be a champion. He humorously described himself as “retired” but clarified that this is not by choice. He is eager to return to the ring and pursue his goal of reaching the Hall of Fame.
Romero’s current stance highlights a perceived stagnation in his career, where he holds a title and garners public attention but lacks a scheduled opponent. He remains determined to face the biggest names in the sport.