Rolly Romero Hints at Return With Giyasov Mandatory Still Unresolved

Rolando Romero suggested on Instagram this week that he has a fight date in place, though he stopped short of offering any details. Romero did not name an opponent, list a location, or clarify whether the WBA welterweight title would be on the line. As is often the case with Romero, the post generated speculation without confirming much beyond his intention to return.

Behind the scenes, the likely scenario is familiar. If Romero intends to keep hold of the WBA title, a mandatory defense against Shakhram Giyasov remains unresolved. Giyasov has been the WBA mandatory challenger since early 2024 and has already been passed over twice. The sanctioning body has tolerated delays to now, though that tolerance is thinning. The position is simple in practice. Romero either moves ahead with the ordered defense or steps aside and frees the belt.

Romero’s history points one way. He has chased visibility and purses before obligations, and he has never pretended otherwise. If a bigger fight opens up, surrendering the title fits his pattern and would surprise no one around the division. That door stays open, especially with talks for Giyasov still going nowhere and no real pressure applied yet.

From a competitive standpoint, Giyasov represents a difficult mandatory. The 2016 Olympic silver medalist combines size, power, and technical control, and he is not known for offering champions a low-risk defense. He remains composed under pressure and is capable of sustaining offense over twelve rounds, which makes him a challenging assignment for any titleholder.

The business side has also tightened. Giyasov is promoted by Eddie Hearn, who has publicly indicated there is little interest in step-aside arrangements. His position has been consistent: either make the fight or proceed to a purse bid. That stance limits Romero’s flexibility and places the next move largely in the hands of the sanctioning body.

Romero has dismissed Giyasov publicly, but the World Boxing Association does not factor public comments into its rulings. The mandatory obligation remains in place.

Romero’s next decision is straightforward. He can proceed with a mandatory defense against a credible challenger, or he can relinquish the title and pursue other opportunities. Either outcome would align with how his career has been managed to this point.