Manny Pacquiao Vs. Ruslan Provodnikov Exhibition Announced

Manny Pacquiao and Ruslan Provodnikov have inked a deal for a 10-round welterweight exhibition.

The clash is set for April 18 from the Thomas & Mack Center in Las Vegas. This matchup pairs two former training partners who shared the same gym for years. This exhibition follows Pacman’s return to professional action in July 2025, where he fought to a majority draw against current WBC champion Mario Barrios. “Pac-Man” had initially hoped to challenge Rolando “Rolly” Romero for the WBA title.

When those negotiations fell through, this exhibition keeps him active for any future world title shot. Provodnikov, who is not 42, has not boxed since 2016. That is where he suffered a loss to John Molina Jr. While a Pacquiao-Provodnikov showdown could have happened back in 2014, those plans were scrapped after Provodnikov’s defeat to Chris Algieri.

“I carry the Philippines with me every time I fight. The support from my country and from fans around the world continues to inspire me. Returning to Las Vegas means so much to me, and I’m excited to work with a team focused on creating a world-class experience for the fans. I’m coming back to give them a great fight — and I’m ready,” Pacquiao said