Matchroom Boxing CEO Frank Smith has responded to speak of Manny Pacquiao probably dealing with Belfast’s Lewis Crocker — admitting the concept of bringing the Filipino legend to Windsor Park is an “fascinating” one, whereas confirming there isn’t any actual motion across the match-up.
Crocker’s supervisor, Jamie Conlan revealed he’d been pushing for a blockbuster bout between Eire’s solely reigning male world champion and the previous eight-division belt holder.
Former world title challenger, revealed he had talks with Irish American Sean Gibbons re making the conflict – and it appears the response was comparatively constructive.
“I reached out to Sean Gibbons of Manny Pacquiao’s staff final evening [Tuesday],” Conlan informed BBC Sport NI re a potential battle with the 46-year-old eight division world champion.
“They’re attempting to do ‘Rolly’ Romero but when that may’t be carried out, then we’re going to have communication.
“Romero and the WBA Matchroom’s Frank Smith: Pacquiao at Windsor Park? It’s an fascinating one is their first port of name, however he’s robust on the concept if one thing will be carried out, it will probably positively be checked out. What an increase it could be to battle Manny Pacquiao.”
Smith confirmed he had met with Conlan and Crocker to debate future plans and admitted Pacquiao was talked about, though he pointed to quite a few choices.
“I met with Lewis and Jamie earlier within the week. They got here into the workplace. We’re discussing what’s subsequent. There are many alternatives.
“No actual discussions but with Manny Pacquiao, however, you understand, may very well be fascinating,” he admitted. “Carry Manny Pacquiao to Windsor Park — after all that’s a battle Lewis could be desirous about. He’s a large identify. Manny Pacquiao doesn’t get a lot greater than that, does it?”
‘Pac Man’ got here out of retirement in July, difficult Marios Barrios for the WBC welterweight world title, with the battle ending in a draw.
It appears the Corridor of Famer’s return wasn’t a one-off as he’s presently trying to battle WBA champion Rolando Romero – and if that battle doesn’t materialise, the IBF world champion could also be within the body.
With the IBF odering a remaining eliminator between Paddy Donovan and Liam Paro, Crocker has scope to make a voluntary defence. Pacquiao would attraction massively by way of finance and profile.
So too would a Conor Benn conflict, which Crocker desires badly and hearsay suggests might occur in Marchof 2026, relying on how the Brits rematch with Chris Eubank Jr performs out.
“While you see what he did only a few weeks again at Windsor Park, he’s received so many alternatives,” Smith stated. “There are huge choices on the market and we’ll hopefully have some information quickly.”
