Following Danny Garcia's big win over Adrian Granados last weekend, most are now awaiting Manny Pacquiao's choice for his next opponent. Garcia and Keith Thurman lead the list of possible next opponents for the PacMan with the chosen one likely to get a big payday - win or lose.
According to Philly.com, Pacquiao would consider Garcia if he put on a good show against Granados. The 31-year-old did just that, hacking out a big win to win the WBC Silver welterweight title at the Dignity Health Sports Park. As of this writing, it remains to be seen if the American pug did enough to impress the Pacquiao camp.
As mentioned in a previous post, a showdown with Thurman looks plausible since he is undefeated. Garcia has lost twice, once against Porter and the other (ironically) against Thurman. However, Garcia has faced more familiar names compared to Garcia. The American fighter has already faced Porter, Brandon Rios, Shawn Porter and Erik Morales in the past.
Whoever Pacquiao leaves out is unlikely to be empty-handed. Terence Crawford is likely to take on who the PacMan passes up. As one can see, this week should prove to be pivotal as Pacquiao decides on who will be facing next.
Whether it be Garcia or Thurman, the one left out will have no easy fight against Crawford. The 31-year-old is undefeated and disposed of Amir Khan last weekend although there is a bit of controversy tied up to an alleged incidental low blow in the sixth round.
In a report from CBS Sports, Khan said that the shot was below the belt and revealed that he was peeing blood as a result of that hit. Also, he stressed that he did not quit, a response to Crawford calling him a quitter on that bout. It was actually his trainer, Virgil Hunter, who called a stop to the fight.
There is a chance as well that Crawford could face Khan again if both parties come to terms. But right now, it seems that either Garcia or Thurman would be up for the undefeated boxer - a decision likely to be made once Pacquiao's next opponent is known.
Whoever it may be, the only thing certain for now is Pacquiao will be returning to the ring this July. Sean Gibbons and Al Haymon will be meeting in the coming days, meaning his next opponent should be revealed soon.
