Ryan Garcia has named Manny Pacquiao and Rolando Romero as the top contenders for his next fight.
Garcia is in the process of planning his hopeful return to winning ways following his recent defeat at the hands of Romero.
The 26-year-old was competing for the first time since serving a one-year doping ban after testing positive for banned substance ostarine.
During an exclusive interview with The Ring, Garcia confirmed his eagerness to fight Pacquiao.
He said: “I’ve been interested in fighting the legendary Manny Pacquiao for a while now.
“It’s something that you dream of. There were talks in the past of us fighting, and then it fell through. There is a history there. I am always up for the challenge. I would be lying if I said I am not interested. If Manny wants to throw down, let’s do it.”
Garcia also included a rematch with Romero as a potential option for his next appearance.
He explained: “I’m looking for and shooting for a fight in December.
“I want to fight in Las Vegas, in front of a big crowd. I want to feed off the crowd and get back in my element.
“I am already training, lifting weights, and lightly hitting the pads. I am sure I’ll be able to go full throttle over the next few weeks. I’ve been recovering faster with this right-hand surgery than with my previous right-hand surgery, and this latest one required more surgical work. It’s a good sign so far. It’s good news.
“If Manny Pacquiao does want to fight me and make big money in a huge fight, then let’s do it. If not, that’s OK with me. I can fight Rolly in a rematch – either route is OK with me.”
Is Manny Pacquiao a likely opponent for Ryan Garcia?
The pair have been rumoured to be going head-to-head for over four years now.
Prior to his comeback Pacquiao had placed Garcia on his shortlist for opponents, but he ultimately went a different route as he sanctioned a bout against Mario Barrios.
Pacquiao and Barrios eventually threw down last Sunday.
Despite their bout ending in a controversial draw, Pacquiao does not seem interested in a rematch with Barrios and would rather pursue other options.
One of those could be Romero, whose name has been whispered as a potential opponent for the Filipino great.
Sean Gibbons, the chief operating officer of Manny Pacquiao Promotions 2018, indicated he wants the superstar to fight once more before he turns 47 on December 17.
With Garcia plotting for his next bout to be in December this year, following a second surgery on his right hand, their schedules could align.
Garcia himself has made it clear he would jump at the chance to take on the all-time great, should it arise.