The WBA is expected to direct Romero to defend his title against Giyasov. The Uzbek contender, an Olympic silver medalist, has built a controlled professional run at welterweight and represents a serious competitive test.
A unification changes the enforcement order. Sanctioning bodies generally allow titleholders to pursue belt-for-belt fights before fulfilling mandatory obligations. If Romero finalizes terms with Haney, the Giyasov defense would be delayed. If negotiations fail, Romero must either defend against Giyasov or vacate the title. Haney said Romero’s team initiated contact.
“His manager reached out to us with a solid offer, something that made sense for me and my team. Now we’re starting to negotiate,” Haney told InsideTheRing. Haney also responded to criticism regarding opponent selection.
“We haven’t heard from Rolly since the Ryan Garcia fight. So, I didn’t take it personal. He can say what he wants to say. The world knows I’m ‘Deebo’ for a reason, because I’m the guy that is pulling up on everyone and wants to make the biggest and the best fights happen. So the duck talk is for somebody else, not for me.”
Romero has not publicly outlined his next move since defeating Ryan Garcia in May. Negotiations with Haney provide a path toward a second titleholder and a higher-profile event at 147.
For Haney, the fight offers an opportunity to unify titles in a new division and answer criticism through activity rather than response.
If an agreement is reached, the WBA mandatory will be deferred. If not, Romero’s next step will be determined by the sanctioning body’s order.
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