What’s Next For Nico Ali Walsh?

Nico Ali Walsh, the grandson of Muhammad Ali, is set to headline against Patumpong Saengarun in a middleweight clash on October 29, as we look at what is next.

The fight, promoted by Manny Pacquiao Promotions, is scheduled to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the iconic “Thrilla in Manila”—Muhammad Ali’s momentous 1975 victory over Joe Frazier. The young boxer has had a busy start to his professional career, with 14 fights under his belt. While he has secured 11 victories, he is currently looking to bounce back from recent setbacks. Ali Walsh lost to Juan Carlos Guerra Jr in February, while struggling past Ebenezer Sowah in a majority decision win in May.

The Aims

The immediate next step for Ali Walsh is executing a dominant victory. Headlining an event coinciding with the 50th anniversary of his grandfather’s iconic “Thrilla in Manila” against Joe Frazier puts enormous pressure on him. Assuming Ali Walsh secures a solid win, his mid-term outlook must pivot toward more meaningful competition within the middleweight division.

Walsh’s early career has focused on activity and building experience, but the recent struggles indicate a need to face fighters that better prepare him for the step up to the next level. Having rejected a multi-million-dollar offer to fight Jake Paul to pursue a legitimate boxing career, Ali Walsh has committed himself to the traditional path of a contender.

In the long term, the ultimate next step for Nico Ali Walsh is to fulfill the promise of his lineage by winning a world title. His name guarantees a spotlight, but his recent in-ring adversity—having faced a loss and a tough decision win—suggests his development requires patience. The current fight in the Philippines is an important step in his journey.