Hollywood actor and lifelong boxing enthusiast Frank Stallone has issued a dramatic public appeal to Manny Pacquiao, urging him to abandon a proposed showdown with Rolly Romero.
Stallone, the brother of Rocky creator Sylvester Stallone, insisted that the former Filipino senator’s long-term health should take precedence over any further perilous ring risks.
Speaking as talk of a high-stakes Pacquiao vs. Romero clash in January continued to dominate the boxing world, Stallone made his feelings unequivocally clear, stating the legend has absolutely nothing left to prove to anyone.
“Your Health Is Not Worth The Risk”
“I don’t like it. I don’t want to see Manny get hurt at this stage of his life. Rolly is too young and strong. Your health is not worth the risk,” said Stallone, his voice adding to the mounting chorus of concern from boxing insiders.
Pacquiao, who turns 47 in December, is relentlessly linked with high-profile opponents despite a storied and secure legacy that saw him claim an unprecedented eight-division world title. The former pound-for-pound king returned last summer with a WBC title challenge against Mario Barrios that many believe he won.
The Perilous Age Gap
The target opponent, Rolly Romero, 29, is a reigning WBA welterweight world champion—a dangerous, heavy-handed fighter nearly two decades younger than Pacquiao. Stallone believes this vast age gap and Romero’s elite physicality make the contest a genuinely life-altering proposition for the Filipino icon.
Calls for Pacquiao to retire have never been louder in some quarters, with many legends and experts echoing Stallone’s deeply felt sentiments. Pacquiao’s place as one of the greatest fighters of all time is already cemented as untouchable, while the risk of stepping in with a younger, fresher champion carries obvious and career-defining dangers, as evidenced by Romero’s domination of Ryan Garcia.
Whether Stallone’s emotional plea resonates with the boxing legend remains to be seen. However, his message is a familiar and potent one: Pacquiao’s history is secure, and at this advanced stage of his life, his health and well-being must finally take precedence over any further championship pursuits.
About the Author
Phil Jay is a veteran boxing journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the global fight scene. As Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News since 2010, Jay has interviewed dozens of world champions and reported ringside on boxing’s biggest nights. [View all articles by Phil Jay] and learn more about his work in combat sports journalism.