Devin Haney is at a weird crossroads, isn't he? After a 2024 that felt like a fever dream—complete with a Ryan Garcia loss that wasn't actually a loss and a "champion in recess" tag that sounded more like a school suspension—the man is finally back.
He's a three-division world champion now.
Most recently, Haney silenced a lot of doubters in November 2025 by taking the WBO welterweight title from Brian Norman Jr. in Riyadh. It wasn't just a win; it was a clinical, 12-round schooling. But boxing fans are greedy. We always want to know what's next. We want the mega-fights.
So, who is Devin Haney fighting next in 2026?
The Names on the Shortlist
Right now, Haney is the hunted. He’s sitting on that WBO belt at 147 pounds, and the sharks are circling. Honestly, the list of potential opponents is a "who's who" of guys who want to prove Haney's chin isn't what it used to be.
Keyshawn Davis
If you follow the trash talk on X (formerly Twitter), you know Keyshawn Davis is the frontrunner. Keyshawn has been loud. Real loud. He’s moving up to 147 specifically to chase this fight. Haney’s response? "You're on the list."
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It’s a dangerous fight for both. Keyshawn has that Olympic pedigree, but he hasn't been in deep waters with a technician like Haney yet.
The Ryan Garcia Rematch
This is the elephant in the room. The first fight was a circus. Garcia tested positive for Ostarine, the result was overturned to a No-Contest, and Haney's "undefeated" record was technically restored. But the image of Haney hitting the canvas three times is burned into everyone's retinas.
Haney wants redemption. Garcia needs a big dance partner.
Garcia is scheduled to fight Mario Barrios for the WBC title in February 2026. If Ryan wins that, a unification rematch with Haney for two belts at welterweight becomes the biggest commercial fight in the sport. Period.
Richardson Hitchins
Hitchins is the guy nobody wants to fight because he's "boring"—which is boxing code for "he's too good at not getting hit." He recently called Haney out, basically calling him a clout chaser for looking at bigger names. Haney dismissed him, but as a mandatory or a high-ranking contender, Hitchins might force the issue soon.
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Why the Welterweight Move Changed Everything
Haney was killing himself to make 135. Then he looked a bit "meh" at 140 compared to his usual self. At 147, he looks like a different animal.
In the Brian Norman Jr. fight, Haney's jab was like a piston. He didn't look drained. He looked strong.
"Devin is more interested in the hardware they carry than who they actually are." — Bill Haney
That quote from his father tells you everything. Haney isn't just looking for "payday" fights; he wants to unify. That puts guys like Jaron "Boots" Ennis in the conversation for late 2026, though that might be a bridge too far for Haney's team just yet. Boots is a terrifying human being.
The "Tank" Davis Factor
Is Gervonta "Tank" Davis ever going to happen?
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Probably not in the first half of 2026. Tank is comfortable at 135/140, and Haney is fully committed to welterweight now. Unless the Saudis put up a truly ridiculous amount of money to bridge that weight gap, this remains the best fight that we’ll never see.
What to Expect in the Coming Months
Boxing moves slow, then all at once. Haney usually likes to fight twice a year. Since he fought in November 2025, expect an announcement for a Spring 2026 bout.
If I were a betting man? It’s Keyshawn Davis.
The build-up is already there. The stylistic matchup is fascinating. It’s the kind of fight that keeps Haney's name in the "Pound for Pound" conversation without the legal headaches and drama that come with a Ryan Garcia promotion.
Actionable Insights for Fans:
- Watch the Garcia vs. Barrios result: On February 21, the landscape of Haney's year will be decided. If Garcia wins, expect the Haney rematch talk to reach a deafening roar.
- Follow the WBO Mandatories: If the WBO orders a mandatory defense against someone like Richardson Hitchins, Haney might have to choose between a "boring" high-risk fight or vacating the belt.
- Keep an eye on Keyshawn Davis vs. Jamaine Ortiz: If Keyshawn looks spectacular in his January outing, the pressure to make Haney-Davis will be undeniable.
Haney is 33-0 (with 1 NC) and only 27 years old. He's already done more than most Hall of Famers do in a career. Whether you love him or hate his defensive style, you have to respect that he doesn't hide. He's looking for the smoke.