Hitchins reopened the Duarte rivalry months after their canceled title fight while continuing to push for Devin Haney at welterweight

Richardson Hitchins says he wants Oscar Duarte or Devin Haney after his next fight, bringing renewed attention to the canceled Duarte title fight that continues to follow him months later. Hitchins publicly called for both fighters after recently leaving the junior welterweight division and signing with Zuffa Boxing. His planned February defense against Duarte was canceled on fight day after Hitchins withdrew due to illness.

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After my next fight i don’t want to step in the ring With Anyone else if ain’t Oscar Duarte or Devin Haney @OscarDeLaHoya @Zuffa_Boxing @GoldenBoyBoxing please let’s make happen omg please 🙏🏾

— Richardson Hitchins (@HeIsRichardson) May 23, 2026

The Duarte name is the one that will follow Hitchins around. He was supposed to defend against Duarte before pulling out hours before the fight. Duarte’s side was left angry, and fans have not forgotten it.

Haney is the bigger name and the bigger money fight at 147. Hitchins has called for him before, and both men now fit into the same welterweight picture after Hitchins left 140. Bad Left Hook reported in February that Hitchins had already been pushing for Haney before his move up.

The issue is timing. Hitchins still does not have a confirmed next opponent for his Zuffa debut. Calling for Duarte or Haney after that keeps him in the conversation, but Duarte would be the cleaner grudge fight.

That is the one fans would believe first. Fans still see Duarte as unfinished business for Richardson Hitchins today.