Devin Haney, the former unified lightweight champion, has confirmed he is in London to discuss the possibility of fighting on a Riyadh Season card with Turki Alalshikh. The meeting could mark a significant step in Haney’s comeback following a controversial bout last April.
Haney‘s last fight, against Ryan Garcia, ended in turmoil after he was knocked down three times but ultimately saw the contest ruled a no-contest due to Garcia‘s positive test for a banned substance.
Since then, Haney has been designated the WBC’s “junior welterweight champion in recess.”
The 24-year-old recently announced via social media that he plans to return to the ring in March. While the promotional company BLK Prime quickly claimed Haney would headline its March 24 event, the fighter revealed at a public workout at London’s Peacock Gym that another option has emerged.
Considering Riyadh Season as a Return Platform
Haney revealed he is exploring the opportunity to fight under a Riyadh Season event engineered by Turki Alalshikh, adding intrigue to his much-anticipated return. “It’s a possibility,” Haney stated. “BLK Prime has a good opportunity for me in March – they offered me something – but now His Excellency has called a meeting for a fight, so we’ll see if we can iron something out while I’m here.”
Haney remained tight-lipped about his next opponent but confirmed discussions with Alalshikh are ongoing. “I don’t have any news on my next opponent yet,” Haney explained. “We are looking at some guys. That’s why I’m here, to meet with [Alalshikh]. We’ll see.”
Speculation on Adrien Broner Matchup
Recent social media chatter suggested Haney might face former two-division titleholder Adrien Broner in March. Addressing these rumors, Haney clarified, “That’s not true, but it’s possible.”
The Riyadh Season has grown into a premier stage for global sports events, making it an appealing platform for Haney’s return.
Whether Haney will finalize a deal for the card or opt for BLK Prime remains to be seen, but his potential comeback is already creating waves in the boxing world.
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