Devin Haney has had a whirlwind 18 months, and he made it clear he’s back on top with a win on Saturday. Haney, now a three-weight world champion, beat Brian Norman Jr. in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, winning the WBO welterweight championship by unanimous decision. The scores were 117-110, 116-111, and 114-113.
This fight was especially significant for Haney (33-0, 15 KOs), as it marked his first true bout at 147 pounds. His last fight was at a lower weight, so moving up raised many questions about his ability to take hits and handle stronger opponents.
Haney’s prior loss to Ryan Garcia in April 2024, which was later changed to a no contest due to Garcia’s positive drug test, added to the doubt surrounding him. Many wondered if he could handle the pressure at this new weight. But he silenced critics, showing resilience and skill throughout the match against Norman (28-1, 22 KOs). Haney knocked Norman down early and maintained control, utilizing his jab effectively and showing surprising strength in close-range exchanges.
After the fight, Haney reflected on his journey: “In 2024, I lost everything. In 2025, I came to get it back.” His determination is palpable, and he aims to secure his place at the top in 2026.
The victory opens up exciting possibilities for Haney. He celebrated his 27th birthday just days ago and is now looking at potential matchups. A rematch with Garcia, who has also transitioned to welterweight, is highly anticipated. Garcia recently lost to Rolando Romero, which could set things in motion for a possible clash with Haney.
“We’re taking on all comers,” Haney declared. “I’m here to stay at 147 for a long time.” This statement highlights his commitment to proving himself in a division filled with tough competitors.
Experts believe Haney’s win could redefine his career trajectory. According to boxing analyst Mike Coppinger, “His performance against Norman has established him as a genuine force in the welterweight division.” With statistics showing that only 20% of fighters successfully move up two weight classes without losing their competitive edge, Haney’s success contributes to his growing legacy.
Fans are buzzing on social media, sharing clips of the fight and expressing excitement for Haney’s future. The victory has reignited discussions about his potential bouts, and many are eager to see how he fares against elite opponents. With recent events in the boxing world, it’s clear that Haney is a fighter to watch as he navigates his career in the coming years.
