The World Boxing Association (WBA) has reportedly rejected a request from welterweight champion Rolando Romero's camp to sidestep a mandatory title defense. Romero's team sought a special exemption to fight Filipino legend Manny Pacquiao next, but the move is facing strong opposition.
Promoter Eddie Hearn Leads the Protest
According to an interview with BoxingScene on December 3, 2025, promoter Eddie Hearn, who represents mandatory contender Shakhram Giyasov, revealed the situation. Hearn stated that Romero's team submitted a request to the WBA for an exemption to face the eight-division world champion, Manny Pacquiao, instead of fulfilling his obligation to Giyasov.
"We've been mandated to fight Rolly Romero, [Romero's team] put in an exemption request to face Manny Pacquiao, which I don't believe is even done," Hearn said. He emphasized the unfairness of the situation, noting that Giyasov has been waiting patiently for his mandated title shot.
Formal Complaint Filed with the WBA
The camp of Uzbekistani fighter Shakhram Giyasov has taken formal action to block Romero's plan. They have sent a letter to the WBA expressing their strong opposition to the proposed exemption. Hearn and Giyasov's team are urging the sanctioning body to enforce its rules and not allow the special request to proceed.
"Shakhram Giyasov has been waiting and waiting, and we believe the WBA should not allow that special exemption to take place," Hearn asserted. This development throws cold water on the persistent rumors that have circulated for some time, suggesting that Romero would be Pacquiao's next opponent in a high-profile bout.
What This Means for the Welterweight Division
The WBA's apparent stance reinforces the mandatory defense process. If the exemption is officially denied, Rolando Romero will be compelled to defend his WBA welterweight title against Shakhram Giyasov. A fight against Manny Pacquiao, one of the sport's biggest stars, would have to wait until after that mandatory obligation is fulfilled.
This decision prioritizes the ranking system and the rights of the mandatory challenger, ensuring that the championship path remains clear for contenders who have earned their position. The boxing world now awaits the WBA's final ruling and the official announcement of Romero's next title defense.
