By Rick Reeno
Former two division champion Paulie Malignaggi discussed a number of options for the comeback of eight division champion Manny Pacquiao.
Malignaggi views undefeated WBO junior welterweight champion Terence Crawford (26-0, 18KOs) as the best opponent for Pacquiao's return. Both fighters are promoted by Top Rank and showcased on HBO.
Crawford is being groomed as a future Pacquiao opponent. He already captured titles at 135 and 140 and has the size, boxing ability and power to make an eventual jump to welterweight. Pacquiao is a small welterweight and the fight could easily be made at catch-weight.
Pacquiao, who is rehabbing his right shoulder after last month's surgery, is not likely to return to the ring until 2016. Crawford is expected back by the fall. He last saw action in April when he knocked out Thomas Dulorme in six.
"Crawford. I think he should fight Crawford. I think its a makeable fight. Crawford is one of the stars of tomorrow and it would be interesting," Malignaggi said.