According to Provodnikov’s manager Vadim Kornilov, the fight is already on the agenda and is very possible, despite the fact that the two talented boxers have close ties through mutual coach Freddie Roach.
“We are discussing the possibility of making the fight between Ruslan and Pacquiao happen this coming year,” Kornilov told World Boxing News.
“I believe that this fight is possible. Either next fight or the one in fall and I know that it’s what everybody wants.”
Pacquiao, 35, has seemingly been left with few options for his next bout if current targets Timothy Bradley and Juan Manuel Marquez agree to a rematch as rumoured, with Provodnikov, and perhaps Jessie Vargas, the only viable opponents at Top Rank.
On paper, Provodnikov would definitely be the more eye-catching contest and would once again see ‘The Siberian Rocky’ move up to 147lbs, this time on the back of his first world title win at light-welterweight.
The Russian pushed Pacquiao’s rival Bradley all the way last April in his first foray at the higher weight and would have no problem going back up the seven pounds as both Provodnikov and Kornilov had previously stated to WBN.
“The promoters (Bob Arum and Artie Pellulo), the TV and the fans want to see this fight so we have to make it happen,” clarified Kornilov.
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