Uncertainty continues to surround one of the most eagerly anticipated events on the global boxing calendar, as plans for a blockbuster showdown between legendary multi-division icon Manny Pacquiao and former world champion Joe Cordina remain stalled. Reports indicate that Pacquiao, the legendary 12-time world champion across eight different weight classes, may have shifted his timeline and settled on facing an opponent in early 2027 instead. With an official announcement expected in the near future, the prospective clash against Wales’ Cordina appears increasingly unlikely to materialize on its originally discussed schedule, leaving promotional figures and sanctioning authorities working to solidify the lineup for a major fight night anchored on December 11.
The prospective matchup had previously generated significant traction across the combat sports landscape, particularly after Cordina formally agreed to terms to share the ring with the Filipino icon. However, Pacquiao, who has been absent from professional competition since July 2025, has not reciprocated by signing his side of the agreement. The prolonged pause from the combat sports legend has cast doubt over whether the contract will ever be finalized, prompting promoters to evaluate alternative options to ensure the upcoming showcase maintains its high-profile stature.
Matchroom Boxing promoter Eddie Hearn previously admitted to harboring doubts regarding the feasibility of the bout, acknowledging that he was unsure whether the final details could ultimately be agreed upon by all parties involved. Despite the lingering hurdles surrounding Pacquiao’s participation, Hearn has remained steadfast in his position that the December 11 card must feature elite representation from Wales. Hearn has been adamant in his belief that a fighter of Cordina’s caliber deserves a prominent spot on what is being framed as one of the most highly anticipated boxing cards in recent years.
Speaking directly on the matter, Hearn emphasized the importance of securing a fitting platform for the Welsh standout, arguing that excluding a proven champion from an event of this magnitude would be a significant oversight. Hearn voiced his perspective candidly during an interview with IFL TV, stating that not having a two-time world champion from Wales on the undercard is crazy. For Hearn, ensuring Cordina’s presence on the bill remains a key priority, regardless of whether the marquee opponent opposite him is Pacquiao or another top-tier contender.
To safeguard Cordina’s inclusion on the December 11 promotion, Hearn has already begun identifying high-profile contingency plans should the Pacquiao fight officially collapse. Among the potential opponents name-checked by the promoter are standout talent Abdullah Mason, elite technician Shakur Stevenson, and fast-rising contender Keyshawn Davis. Each of these potential foes represents a formidable challenge in their own right, offering Cordina an avenue toward another marquee performance on a major international stage if the legendary Filipino veteran opts for a different direction or a delayed return in 2027.
The broader framework of the event also remains fluid. Turki Alalshikh, the co-founder of Zuffa Boxing and a prominent member of the Saudi Royal Court, has officially confirmed that the December 11 card is not yet finalized. Alalshikh’s update underscores the ongoing complexity of assembling high-stakes international boxing events, where television rights, co-promotional agreements, and fighter availability frequently require extensive calibration before a fight card can be formally locked in and announced to the public.
For Pacquiao, the reported pivot toward an early 2027 fight date marks another intriguing chapter in an extraordinary career. Having captured world titles across an unprecedented eight distinct weight divisions, the Filipino superstar remains one of the most draw-worthy names in combat sports history. However, his inactivity since July 2025 has naturally introduced questions regarding timing, readiness, and scheduling priorities. While fans and analysts await an official announcement regarding his next career move, the prospect of a ring return in early 2027 suggests that Pacquiao is taking a measured approach to selecting his next engagement rather than rushing into a December date.
For Cordina, the situation presents both a temporary frustration and a compelling opportunity. Having already accepted the terms to face Pacquiao, the Welsh fighter demonstrated his readiness to step into a career-defining event against one of the greatest boxers of all time. Cordina’s status as a two-time world champion established his credentials at the sport’s highest level, making him a fitting participant for major fight nights. While waiting for clarity on Pacquiao’s intentions, Cordina remains positioned at the center of Hearn’s promotional strategy for the end-of-year show.
The potential alternative opponents floated by Hearn highlight the depth of options available for Cordina if the primary fight falls through. A potential pairing against Shakur Stevenson would pit Cordina against one of the most defensively sound and tactically revered champions in modern boxing, offering a high-stakes tactical battle that would capture global attention. A clash against Keyshawn Davis would present a classic matchup of established world-level experience against explosive, high-ceiling prospective talent. Meanwhile, taking on a rising force like Abdullah Mason would showcase Cordina against one of the sport’s most highly regarded young prospects, creating a dynamic narrative for viewers.
Hearn’s public commentary reflects the delicate balance promoters must strike when navigating elite-level fight negotiations. While securing a marquee name like Pacquiao remains the ultimate goal for any major card, establishing viable secondary options is essential for maintaining event momentum. Hearn’s insistence on keeping Cordina featured prominently highlights the promoter’s commitment to backing his marquee talent and ensuring that Welsh boxing retains a visible platform on international broadcasts.
The involvement of Zuffa Boxing and Turki Alalshikh further emphasizes the high-level backing behind the December 11 event. As a key figure within the Saudi Royal Court and a co-founder of Zuffa Boxing, Alalshikh has played an instrumental role in shaping contemporary mega-events in combat sports. His confirmation that the card remains unfinalized indicates that active discussions are ongoing behind the scenes to assemble a fight lineup that meets the high expectations surrounding the date.
As negotiations continue and the official announcement regarding Pacquiao’s plans draws near, the boxing world remains in a state of watchful anticipation. Whether Pacquiao formally commits to a return in early 2027 or surprises the sport with a sudden resolution for late 2025 or 2026, the ripple effects of his decision will directly shape the trajectory of the December 11 show. For Cordina, Hearn, and the event organizers, the focus remains firmly on securing a world-class matchup that preserves the significance of the upcoming fight card.
