What’s Next For Devin Haney?

Devin Haney is moving on from Teofimo Lopez as we examine who he could face next.

Reports indicated that Haney had agreed on a deal to fight Lopez at a catchweight of 145 pounds. The pair have been rivals for a prolonged period of time since they were linked with a bout at 135 pounds. That is when Lopez was the unified lightweight champion, while Haney would go on to become undisputed.

Haney would go on to become the WBC Junior Welterweight Champion after defeating Regis Prograis. Meanwhile, Lopez would acquire the WBO Junior Welterweight Title with a victory over Josh Taylor. However, Haney’s stock has dropped since his no-contest against Ryan Garcia. 

His follow-up win against Jose Ramirez was also criticised, as he showed a reluctance to engage. Lopez has been chasing the biggest fights, having called out several names, including Terence Crawford and Jaron Ennis. It appeared that Haney would be the next opponent before Lopez reportedly pulled out.

Options

Haney could now move back down to 140 pounds and take fights against the other champions, such as IBF Junior Welterweight Champion Richardson Hitchins. He has consistently called out Haney for a fight after his victory over Liam Paro to secure the belt. Hitchins faces George Kambosos Jr. in his next fight, meaning Haney could secure a title at 140.

Alternatively, Haney could stay at 147 to target the big names. There are possible fights against Jaron Ennis or Connor Benn. Ennis is the Unified Welterweight Champion after having stopped Emmanuel Stanionis to claim the IBF, WBA and Ring Magazine Titles. Ennis is looking to become undisputed at 147. However, the other champions in the division, such as Mario Barrios and Brian Norman Jr. have other fights planned. 

Those names could also be an opportunity for Haney to become a three-weight world champion. Meanwhile, Benn is with Matchroom in a fight that would sell out in the UK. Equally, there is the chance to pursue the Ryan Garcia rematch. The fight is still a big bout, with suggestions that Ryan only won because of the presence of PEDs in his system.

However, Garcia has recently undergone hand surgery, which is expected to keep him out for some time. Meanwhile, Oscar De La Hoya also suggested that Garcia may have a shoulder problem, leaving Haney with plenty to consider moving forward.