The WBO mandatory challenger says Haney should address his title obligation before discussing other fights
Keyshawn Davis has questioned why Devin Haney is discussing a potential fight with Shakur Stevenson instead of focusing on his mandatory title challenger. The unbeaten contender says Haney is talking about a fighter outside the welterweight division while a required defense remains in front of him.
“So, you got a guy willing to lose more weight not to fight me,” Keyshawn said on social media. “You got a mandatory right here. And you talking about a [guy] that’s not even at your weight class.”
Keyshawn also dismissed Haney’s recent exchanges with Shakur, pointing out that Stevenson began his career several divisions below welterweight.
“Shakur is not at your weight class,” Davis said. “What is you talking about?”
While Keyshawn accused Haney of avoiding the fight, his frustration may extend beyond the social media back-and-forth.
The 15-0 contender finally secured one of the strongest positions available to a title challenger when he became Haney’s mandatory opponent. However, mandatory status does not always guarantee an immediate title opportunity.
Devin has no shortage of lucrative alternatives.
A fight with Shakur has quickly gained interest following their public exchanges about meeting at a 144-pound catchweight. If the matchup materializes and proves competitive, a rematch could become an attractive option for both fighters.
Haney also still has unfinished business with Ryan Garcia after their rivalry generated significant attention. A future clash with Conor Benn has likewise been discussed as another major event capable of drawing substantial interest.
Each scenario threatens to push Keyshawn further down the line despite his mandatory status.
Davis has previously voiced similar frustrations regarding Teofimo Lopez, claiming top fighters have repeatedly looked elsewhere rather than face him. This time, however, the stakes appear considerably higher.
If Haney elects to pursue Shakur first, Keyshawn could find himself waiting while the division’s biggest names settle more financially rewarding business.
For Davis, the concern may not simply be being overlooked.
It may be that after years of climbing the rankings and finally earning his place at the front of the line, the line itself keeps moving.
The mandatory position Keyshawn worked to secure should theoretically provide the clearest path to a world title opportunity. Modern boxing, however, rarely follows a predictable script.

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Last Updated on 2026/06/10 at 4:43 AM