“What a performance. He’s 25-years-old. Unbelievable performance from Diego Pacheco. I’m telling you he’s the future of the 168-lb division. Watch this space. Jaime Munguia, Canelo Alvarez, here we come,” said Hearn to DAZN Boxing.

The comments reflected Hearn’s excitement after watching Pacheco produce one of the strongest performances of his career, finishing a durable opponent who had previously gone the distance against quality opposition.

Later during the post-fight press conference, Hearn explained that Matchroom’s ideal plan is to give Pacheco one more meaningful fight before pursuing Munguia. He mentioned Diego Resendiz and Bruno Surace as opponents that would continue Pacheco’s development while raising his profile.

Hearn also left the door open for Munguia if the opportunity arrives sooner.

“If the Munguia fight came, maybe he jumps at it,” Hearn said, adding that Pacheco would have a difficult decision if that offer materialized.

Pacheco made his own position clear when asked if he would accept a Munguia fight next.

“Honestly, for me, I would love to take that fight next. I feel like I’m ready,” said Pacheco. “I worked my ass off, and I put the work in. I dedicated my whole life to this since I was 10 years old. I always said I wanted to become a world champion around 24, 25. So right now is the time.”

A fight with Munguia would represent the biggest test of Pacheco’s career and the type of signature clash Hearn believes can elevate him into the upper tier of the super middleweight division. If Munguia isn’t available next, Hearn identified Resendiz and Surace as the leading options before revisiting that opportunity.