Klimas has clearly been irked by sudden reports linking Pacquiao to a possible fight with the current pound for pound star, who defeated Guillermo Rigondeaux with ease last December.
‘Loma’ is pushing for big names, and they don’t come any bigger than Pacquiao since Floyd Mayweather retired, although Klimas said the Filipino is too old to be considered for the two-time Olympic champion when reacting further to constant queries on the matter from fans through social media.
A career-best payday is not the motivation for Lomachenko, according to Klimas, as the Ukrainian is looking to build a solid legacy based on the best match-ups available.
“Sometimes it can’t be all about eight or seven figures. Sometimes has to be about respect for legends and others. When you have your goals to reach it can’t be just about the money,” said Klimas.
“Manny is legendary and a very respectful fighter, but he is non-active. He is done and Loma won’t take advantage of it just beating a legend to get his name.
“We have better route fighting active champions in our weight class. Stay tune you will see and say WOW!”
Loma stood to make a massive career-high purse to face Pacquiao, potentially in April at a catchweight of around 137 or 138 pounds, but could instead make the five pound jump to lightweight in a bid to become a three-weight world champion.
Jorge Linares and Mikey Garcia are set to battle each other in the summer, leaving Lomachenko with less options to face a belt holder at the weight.
Robert Easter Jr. – the IBF champion or more likely, the winner of Ray Beltran v Paulus Moses for the vacant WBO strap are possibilities as Lomachenko aims to keep his reputation soaring on the back of impressive performances since turning professional.
Phil Jay is Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay
