Haney made his position clear in a post on X, pointing directly to what he views as a difference between Romero’s perceived value and the terms being discussed.
The core of the issue appears to be how the revenue is split. Haney made it clear that the numbers currently on the table don’t add up for him, especially given his skepticism of Romero’s drawing power.
“I’m looking at other options he can go fight his mandatory since he’s such a draw,” Haney said.
Haney isn’t waiting around for the numbers to change. He signaled that he is actively exploring other options, essentially telling Romero to go handle his mandatory defense since he claims to be such a big star.
By shifting the focus to Rolly’s inability to “sell out a ballroom,” Haney is putting the pressure back on Romero’s camp to either adjust their demands or lose the opportunity entirely.
In the same post, Haney questioned Romero’s ability to generate revenue, suggesting that it has played a role in the delay.
“Rolly delusional, acting like he’s some kind of draw but can’t sell out a ballroom,” Haney said. “That’s why the fight hasn’t been made yet.. the money isn’t right.”
Reports circulating alongside Haney’s comments indicate that Romero has agreed to his side of a proposed deal, while Haney has not signed, with purse terms remaining unresolved.
Haney has been very vocal about a rematch with Ryan Garcia, which would be a massive commercial event.
While Rolly is seen by many as an “easy” win for Haney, Rolly’s power is real. Haney may feel that if he’s going to take any risk, the “A-side” money needs to reflect his status as a three-division champion.
If the negotiations officially collapse this week, Haney has plenty of directions to go:
Ryan Garcia: The biggest money fight available and a chance to settle the “no-contest” score.
Shakur Stevenson: A high-level technical battle that fans have been asking for, though a tough negotiation.
Jack Catterall: A solid name that keeps him active while waiting for a mega-fight.
Teofimo Lopez: Another former rival that would draw huge interest at welterweight.
Unless Rolly’s camp or the promoters blink and adjust the terms, Haney seems perfectly content to let Rolly deal with his mandatory, Shakhram Giyasov, while he hunts for a bigger stage.
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