Bill Haney Responds To WBO Pressure: Shakur First, Keyshawn Next

I respect the WBO. I respect the rules.

I also believe that boxing belongs to the people.

The people have made it clear they want to see Devin Haney and Shakur Stevenson share the ring, and we’ll do our part to see if that fight can be made.

If not, Keyshawn Davis next.

— Bill Haney (@BillHaney77) June 19, 2026

The statement is notable because it places Shakur ahead of Keyshawn in the Haney camp’s current plans. Discussions about a Haney-Shakur fight have intensified in recent weeks, with both fighters publicly exchanging messages regarding a potential catchweight agreement.

At the same time, Keyshawn’s position as the WBO’s mandatory challenger continues to complicate matters. The unbeaten Norfolk native has repeatedly called for his title shot, while WBO officials have signaled that Haney’s championship obligations cannot be ignored indefinitely.

Bill Haney’s message appears to leave both paths open. The preferred route remains a high-profile clash with Shakur, but if that fight cannot be finalized, the Haney camp is indicating that a mandatory defense against Keyshawn is the next option on the table.

From a business standpoint, Haney versus Shakur would likely generate greater interest among hardcore boxing fans, while a fight with Keyshawn would satisfy the WBO’s requirements and settle one of the sport’s most active ongoing rivalries.