A highly anticipated boxing match between WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jnr. and former two-division titleholder Devin Haney is reportedly on the horizon, with both fighters verbally agreeing to face off later this year. This monumental clash, which has garnered significant attention within the boxing community, is slated for a potential November staging, backed by the influential Saudi Arabian boxing financier, Turki Alalshikh. The prospect of this encounter has ignited discussions among fans and pundits alike, given the impressive records and fighting styles of both athletes, promising an electrifying event for the sport.
Brian Norman Jnr., at 24 years old, enters this potential matchup with an impressive undefeated record of 28 wins, including 22 knockouts. His recent dominant performance, a fifth-round knockout victory over Jin Sasaki in Japan, further solidified his standing as a force in the welterweight division. Following this win, Norman Jnr. promptly conveyed his eagerness to his promoter, Top Rank, to pursue a fight with Haney. A key condition from Norman Jnr.'s camp is that the bout takes place at the traditional 147-pound welterweight limit, without any catchweight clauses or next-day weigh-in restrictions, emphasizing his confidence and commitment to a straightforward championship contest.
Devin Haney, a formidable opponent with a professional record of 32 wins and 15 knockouts, recently secured a unanimous decision victory against Jose Ramirez in New York's Times Square. Haney's pursuit of a significant challenge led him to express interest in facing Norman Jnr. after previous attempts to secure fights with other prominent boxers, such as Jaron “Boots” Ennis and Teofimo Lopez, did not materialize. Haney’s father, trainer, and manager, Bill Haney, underscored their readiness for the Norman fight in a recent statement, signaling their intention to move forward with the matchup.
The involvement of Turki Alalshikh is crucial, not only for his financial backing but also due to the timing of this proposed fight. Top Rank's current broadcasting agreement with ESPN is set to conclude on July 26, making external financial support potentially necessary. Alalshikh, who also holds a minority stake in DAZN, could play a pivotal role in ensuring the fight's successful promotion and broadcast. The location for this eagerly awaited confrontation is still undetermined, adding another layer of anticipation to the ongoing negotiations. This matchup represents a significant moment for both fighters, with the potential to elevate their careers and leave a lasting impact on the welterweight division.
This imminent welterweight contest featuring Brian Norman Jnr. and Devin Haney promises to be a memorable occasion, showcasing two of boxing's most compelling talents. The commitment from both camps, coupled with the potential involvement of a major financial backer, sets the stage for a significant event in the boxing calendar. Fans worldwide eagerly await further announcements regarding the finalization of this exciting matchup, poised to witness a high-caliber clash that could reshape the landscape of the welterweight division.