Manny Pacquiao is planning a return to the ring early next year, his closest adviser told ESPN's Dan Rafael.
MP Promotions president Sean Gibbons said the welterweight world titlist will fight in late March or April in the United States, according to Rafael.
Gibbons also revealed that Danny Garcia (35-2, 21 KOs) and the unrelated Mikey Garcia (39-1, 30 KOs) have been short-listed to face Pacquiao (62-7-2, 39 KOs). Danny, 31, is a former welterweight and junior welterweight champion, while Mikey, also 31, has won belts in four weight classes.
Pacquiao last fought in July when he beat Keith Thurman via decision to take the welterweight crown.
The 40-year-old works as a senator in his native Philippines when he isn't boxing.