A 144-pound compromise once looked realistic after both camps publicly discussed it. That changed when Shakur encouraged Devin to defend his WBO welterweight title against his friend, Keyshawn Davis, or give up the belt. From the Haney camp’s perspective, there is little reason to offer another weight concession after that.
“I would never agree to that, and I suggest Deebo never go under 147 for nobody,” Bill Haney said on X.
He later explained why.
“You right Shakur told us to fight Keyshawn at 147 after Deebo agreed to fight him at 144. I advise Deebo should make everyone fight him at 147.”
Shakur’s reference to his pound-for-pound ranking doesn’t strengthen his negotiating position. Those lists are subjective opinions assembled by small media panels. They don’t determine purse splits, catchweights, or who controls negotiations.
Haney’s leverage comes from his business position. As the WBO welterweight champion, he has access to bigger money fights than Stevenson currently does. Ryan Garcia, Conor Benn, Teofimo Lopez, Richardson Hitchins, and Rolly Romero all represent lucrative possibilities at 147.
Stevenson’s options at 140 don’t offer the same earning potential. Haney can pursue several major fights without leaving welterweight, while Stevenson has more incentive to secure a deal with him.
His suggestion that he could insist on 140 doesn’t change that equation. Haney already owns a world title at 147 and has little reason to leave his championship division. Asking him to cut seven pounds benefits Shakur far more than it benefits the champion.
Bill Haney’s latest comments suggest the family’s position has hardened. If Shakur wants the fight, he may have to accept Devin’s terms instead of expecting another compromise.
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