Such a retirement has proved to be predictably short-lived, however, with long-time promoter and Top Rank CEO Bob Arum confirming speculation over a likely return last month by revealing that Pacquiao had “asked us to find a venue, an opponent and date that doesn’t interfere with his senatorial duties or his availability to train”.
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This week Arum tweeted he would soon be meeting with Pacquiao in the Philippines to discuss plans for his next bout, which is reportedly scheduled for November 5.
Arum is looking at holding the fight in Las Vegas or Dubai.
“Retirement doesn’t suit Manny right now”, Koncz told the Los Angeles Times of the former eight-division world champion. “Boxing is in his blood”.
The 37-year-old southpaw from General Santos City originally announced his retirement from boxing after a unanimous decision victory over Timothy Bradley Jr in their rubber match last April. You can see a dramatic difference in his mood.
“We’re going to try to put together a fight that is the best economic package for Manny”, Koncz said. “It is wonderful what training and fighting does for him”.
American Vargas (27-1-0) said Friday he is in talks with Pacquiao’s camp to hold a fight on November 5 at the Thomas & Mack Center arena in Las Vegas.
Aside from Vargas, WBO junior welterweight champion Terence Crawford was also considered as one of the possible options to dance with Pacquiao.
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Vargas won his belt in March against compatriot Sadam Ali and has won 10 of his bouts via a knockout or stoppage, with his only defeat coming in a points loss against Bradley past year.
