Devin Haney may have his sights set on a long-rumored showdown with Shakur Stevenson, but the WBO has made it clear that another opponent is first in line.
Haney and Stevenson recently exchanged messages online in which both men were open to each other at a 144-pound catchweight. With no fighter currently scheduled to return, speculation surrounding the bout quickly intensified.
However, the sanctioning body reiterated its stance on Haney’s obligations as WBO welterweight champion.
“Devin must next discharge his obligation,” the WBO said Ring.
The statement comes after Keyshawn Davis was elevated to the #1 spot in the WBO’s latest welterweight rankings following his decision to campaign full-time at 147 pounds. The Ring reported that Haney’s mandatory title defense is set for August, leaving little room for alternative plans if he intends to hold on to the belt.
Keyshawn has already indicated that he is done competing at light welterweight following wins over Jamaine Ortiz and Nahir Albright earlier this year. He later cemented that commitment by turning down an opportunity to fight Lindolfo Delgado for the vacant IBF 140-pound title.
Haney publicly acknowledged Davis as a possible opponent, but also maintained that a fight with Stevenson would represent the bigger event. Stevenson, meanwhile, insisted that any clash between the pair would have to take place at a catchweight of 144lbs.
Should Haney go ahead with a Stevenson fight next, the WBO looks set to strip him of his welterweight title. If he wants to remain champion, the organization’s message remains unchanged: Keyshawn Davis comes first.
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Last updated on 2026/06/12 at 02:14
