The world of boxing is abuzz with anticipation as Devin Haney's future opponents are being discussed, and his father, trainer Bill Haney, has some intriguing insights to share. In a recent interview, Bill delves into the challenges of securing a fight with Shakur Stevenson and sheds light on the priorities and preferences for Devin's next big match-up.
The Shakur Stevenson Dilemma
One of the most talked-about potential fights is between Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson. However, Bill Haney reveals that there has been no response from Stevenson's camp regarding the proposed 144-pound agreement. This lack of response raises questions about the feasibility of this highly anticipated match-up.
"Shakur hasn't given us any indication that he's interested in the fight at the proposed weight. It's a bit of a mystery why there's been no response, but it certainly makes it challenging to move forward with this fight," Bill explains.
Prioritizing Opponents: Tank Davis at the Top
When it comes to prioritizing opponents, Bill places Tank Davis at the top of the list. He emphasizes the ongoing discussions with Al Haymon, suggesting a genuine interest in making this fight happen. Interestingly, the issue of dehydration, which is often a concern in boxing, hasn't been raised, indicating a potential willingness to negotiate a fair fight at a weight to be determined.
"Tank Davis is a formidable opponent, and we're eager to see a fair and competitive match. The fact that dehydration hasn't been brought up is a positive sign, and we're hopeful that we can work out a mutually beneficial agreement," Bill adds.
The Challenge of Getting Shakur in the Ring
Bill Haney doesn't shy away from acknowledging the difficulty of getting Shakur Stevenson into the ring. He believes that the biggest challenge might not be the fight itself but rather convincing Shakur to step into the ring in the first place.
"Shakur's training background and experience are impressive, but the transition to the big stage can be daunting. We're confident that Devin is more than capable of handling him, but the key is getting him to agree to the fight," Bill says.
WBO Order and Keyshawn Davis
The WBO's order for Devin Haney to defend his title against Keyshawn Davis presents an interesting opportunity. Bill Haney sees it as a chance for Devin to continue his ascent towards boxing's Mount Rushmore. While Keyshawn Davis is on the list of potential opponents, Bill hints at the financial benefits that come with such a fight.
"Fighting Keyshawn Davis would be a great opportunity for Devin to continue his winning streak and further establish himself as one of the greats. It's a win-win situation, both in terms of the challenge it presents and the financial gains it could bring," Bill suggests.
Boots: A Difficult Puzzle
When it comes to a potential fight with Boots, Bill Haney believes it would be a challenging puzzle for Devin and his team. He acknowledges Boots' skills but believes that Devin's style could be a winning formula.
"Boots is a talented fighter, but we believe Devin has the tools to adapt and overcome his style. It would be a fascinating match-up, and we're confident that Devin could figure out the puzzle," Bill explains.
Ryan Garcia: Maturity and Cleanliness Concerns
As for Ryan Garcia, he's currently ranked 10th on Haney's list of potential opponents. Bill Haney expresses concerns about Garcia's maturity and the need for him to be pushed by his team. Additionally, there are questions about Garcia's cleanliness, with Bill suggesting that he undergo the VADA drug testing program to build trust.
"We want to see Ryan Garcia take his career to the next level, but there are some hurdles to overcome. We'd like to see him commit to a rigorous testing program to ensure a level playing field," Bill concludes.
As the boxing world eagerly awaits Devin Haney's next move, Bill Haney's insights provide a fascinating glimpse into the behind-the-scenes negotiations and challenges of securing high-profile fights. With a mix of skill, strategy, and a bit of psychological insight, Devin Haney's camp is navigating the complex world of professional boxing.
