Just months after securing his latest title, Devin Haney is already making waves in the boxing world—and this time, it’s not just about his undefeated record. But here’s where it gets controversial: one of his fellow 147-pound champions has boldly called him out for a unification fight that could shake up the division. Is Haney ready to prove himself once again, or is this a challenge too far? Let’s dive in.
In 2025, Devin Haney cemented his legacy as a three-division world champion with a performance that left the boxing world in awe. The American phenom, already dominant at lightweight and super-lightweight, made a seamless transition to welterweight, where he dethroned the previously unbeaten WBO champion, Brian Norman Jr. What’s striking is how effortlessly Haney dispatched Norman, despite pre-fight predictions labeling it a toss-up. Now, ‘The Dream’ has his sights set on becoming an undisputed multi-division champion—a feat he’s already achieved at lightweight. But this time, the stakes are higher, and the opponents are fiercer.
Haney’s wishlist includes a grudge match rematch with Ryan Garcia, who’s vying for the WBC title next month, pending an official announcement. He’s also eyeing WBA champ Rolando Romero and the IBF titleholder, Lewis Crocker. And this is the part most people miss: Crocker himself has thrown down the gauntlet, openly challenging Haney to a unification bout that could redefine their careers.
In a recent interview with Ring Magazine, Crocker didn’t hold back. ‘Absolutely, [Devin Haney is my number one target],’ he declared. ‘Haney’s a pound-for-pound great, a multiple-weight world champion, and the biggest name out there. It’s good that he’s interested in the fight and willing to step up.’ Crocker’s message is clear: champions should fight champions—for themselves and for the fans. But is this fight as straightforward as Crocker makes it seem?
Adding another layer of intrigue, Crocker recently parted ways with trainer Billy Nelson, the Scotsman who guided him to world honors last year. Instead, he’s enlisted Huzaifah Iqbal as his new lead cornerman. Iqbal’s confidence is palpable. ‘Lewis is up for any fight,’ he said. ‘We’ve talked about potential opponents, and I know he’s hungry for this Haney showdown. It’s a technical battle I’d love to see, and so would he.’
However, Crocker’s path to Haney isn’t without obstacles. The IBF recently denied his request for a voluntary title defense and rematch against Conah Walker, whom he controversially defeated in 2024. Instead, Crocker has been ordered to defend his belt against Australia’s Liam Paro, a former super-lightweight world champion and the current IBF mandatory challenger. Here’s the burning question: Will Crocker get past Paro to make the Haney fight a reality, or will this unification dream remain just that—a dream?
As the boxing world watches closely, one thing is certain: Devin Haney’s rise continues to captivate, and his next move could redefine the sport. But what do you think? Is Haney unstoppable, or is Crocker the underdog poised to upset the apple cart? Let us know in the comments—this debate is far from over.
