WBC President Mauricio Sulaiman has set a crucial deadline for undefeated lightweight champion Devin Haney, giving him until Friday, July 21st, to make a decision that will shape his boxing career. Haney finds himself at a crossroads, torn between two enticing options. One path leads him to the 140-pound division where he would challenge WBC champion Regis Prograis in a highly anticipated clash. The other path keeps him at 135 pounds, defending his title against mandatory challenger Shakur Stevenson. However, Haney’s recent arrest on a felony charge of carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle adds a layer of complexity to his situation. While he has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in court on August 3rd, the impending legal proceedings only heighten the importance of his decision.
Haney, with an unblemished record of 30 wins and no losses, is coming off a significant victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko in May, solidifying his status as a rising star in the lightweight division. His potential match-up with Stevenson, who boasts an impressive record of 20 wins and no losses, promises to be a thrilling showdown between two highly skilled fighters. On the other hand, the opportunity to challenge Prograis, despite his less impressive recent win over Danielito Zorrilla, presents Haney with a chance to move up in weight and establish his dominance in a new division.
As Friday’s deadline looms, the boxing world eagerly awaits Haney’s decision, which will undoubtedly shape the trajectory of his career and the landscape of the lightweight and junior welterweight divisions. Regardless of his choice, it is clear that Devin Haney’s talent and potential continue to captivate the attention of fans and pundits alike, as they eagerly anticipate his next move inside the ring.
