Devin Haney Dismisses Hype Around Brian Norman Jr. Ahead of Title Clash

Devin Haney isn’t putting much stock into Brian Norman Jr.’s recent triumph as their welterweight showdown approaches.

Haney is set to challenge Norman for the WBO welterweight title on November 22 in Riyadh, with hopes of becoming a three-weight world champion. Earlier this year, Norman (28-0, 22 KOs) made a statement by defending his title in Tokyo, stopping Japan’s Jin Sasaki (19-2-1, 17 KOs) within five rounds. The dominant win reaffirmed Norman’s reputation as one of the division’s most powerful punchers — but Haney remains skeptical.

“He did what he was supposed to do,” Haney told Boxing News. “Did he knock him out? Yes. Did he show power? Absolutely. But it was against a guy I’ve never even heard of — and I watch boxing constantly. He’s not elite.

“Norman looked good, sure, but it was against someone who isn’t world-class. I’ve been fighting top-level opposition for years.”

At 26, Haney has the résumé to support his confidence. A former undisputed lightweight champion and WBC super-lightweight titleholder, he has shared the ring with elite names such as George Kambosos Jr., Vasyl Lomachenko, Regis Prograis, Ryan Garcia, and Jose Carlos Ramirez.

Now competing at 147 pounds, Haney is eager to deliver a stronger performance following a less-than-stellar showing against Ramirez earlier this year.

“Making 140 was extremely difficult for me,” Haney admitted. “I felt drained going into the Ryan fight — I came into camp heavy and just didn’t feel like myself. Even though I made weight, I didn’t feel as strong as I did against Regis. But when I fought at 144, I felt great. I believe I’ll be even better at 147.”