WBA Mandatory Situation Between Romero and Giyasov Remains Unresolved

Rolando Romero is sitting on a title he hasn’t defended, and the excuse pile is starting to look familiar. The WBA told him in October to deal with Shakhram Giyasov. Nothing has moved. Romero is now asking for a pass so he can look elsewhere first. That is another way of saying he wants a softer night.

Giyasov already stepped aside twice. Once you do that, you stop being patient. He wants a date or a purse. Romero wants time. That tells you who likes the fight and who doesn’t.

Why this isn’t about schedules

Romero has been holding that belt since May, when Ryan Garcia gave it away. Since then, zero activity. No rhythm. The longer he sits, the harder that first three rounds become against a technician who doesn’t waste steps. Romero can talk about exemptions all he likes, but inactivity is the opponent that tends to win.

The risk Romero can’t spin

Giyasov applies calm pressure and doesn’t chase mistakes. That is exactly the sort of opponent who forces Romero into ugly resets. If Romero can’t control distance with his jab and starts looking for single right hands, he’ll give away rounds and look like a man hoping for a bailout shot. This isn’t about “title momentum.” It’s about whether Romero can handle a disciplined pace without unravelling.

If this drags on and Romero gets the soft touch he wants, all it does is confirm suspicion. He didn’t win a division. He inherited a belt and tried to delay the first honest test. If he loses whenever this finally happens, it won’t show he slipped. It will show he never spoke from strength.