Regis Prograis Picks Shakur Stevenson But Questions Devin Haney Fight

Former champion says Stevenson is the more skilled fighter but believes Haney’s size creates major problems

Regis Prograis believes Shakur Stevenson has more skill than Devin Haney, but he is not convinced the fight makes sense because of Haney’s size advantage. The former world champion says Haney’s natural welterweight dimensions could be the biggest obstacle to making the matchup.

Prograis, who lost a unanimous decision to Haney in 2023, was recently asked how he sees a potential showdown between the two American stars playing out.

“I don’t think they’ll fight because Haney’s too big. I’m not saying Shakur’s a little guy, but Shakur is small compared to Devin,” said Prograis to MillCity Boxing.

“They really have similar styles, Devin’s just a bigger version. Shakur’s left-handed, I think a little more skilled for me.”

Despite viewing Stevenson as the superior technician, Prograis acknowledged that Haney’s size could be a major factor if the fight is made.

The matchup has gained momentum in recent weeks amid reports that both fighters could be heading to Zuffa Boxing. However, one of the biggest obstacles remains the weight.

Stevenson has floated the idea of a catchweight, while Haney appears willing to fight only at the full welterweight limit. That may be where the fight becomes complicated.

A move to 147 pounds would force Stevenson to give away advantages he has enjoyed throughout much of his career. Against Teofimo Lopez earlier this year, Shakur relied heavily on his jab and movement to control the action. The problem is that Haney’s jab is arguably his best weapon as well.

Unlike Lopez, Haney is taller, owns a longer reach, and is naturally bigger. If Stevenson moves to welterweight and attempts to out-jab Haney from distance, he could find himself fighting a battle on Haney’s terms.

Prograis still leans toward Stevenson if the fight happens.

“But if they fought, I would still say Shakur, just because of the left-handed style. It’ll be close. Nobody’s gonna knock the other out. It would just be a boxing match. I don’t see nobody getting hurt. I go for Shakur, but if Devin wins or draws, I wouldn’t be surprised,” said Regis.

The biggest obstacle may not be skill but size. Stevenson may be the more polished boxer in Prograis’ view, yet Haney’s height, reach, and natural welterweight frame could be difficult to overcome if they ever share the ring.

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