Devin Haney Confirms Rolly Romero Unification Talks as WBA Mandatory Nears

The fight would take priority over Romero’s mandatory defense against Shakhram Giyasov

Devin Haney says he is negotiating a welterweight unification fight with Rolando Romero. The bout would delay Romero’s mandatory defense against Shakhram Giyasov.

A unification changes the order of obligations. Sanctioning bodies usually allow champions to pursue belt-for-belt fights before dealing with mandatory challengers. If Romero reaches an agreement with Haney, the ordered defense against Shakhram Giyasov would be pushed back. If the talks fall apart, Romero would have to defend against Giyasov or give up the title. Haney said the approach came from Romero’s side.

“His manager reached out to us with a solid offer, something that made sense for me and my team. Now we’re starting to negotiate,” Haney told InsideTheRing. Haney also responded to criticism regarding opponent selection.

“We haven’t heard from Rolly since the Ryan Garcia fight. So, I didn’t take it personal. He can say what he wants to say. The world knows I’m ‘Deebo’ for a reason, because I’m the guy that is pulling up on everyone and wants to make the biggest and the best fights happen. So the duck talk is for somebody else, not for me.”

Romero has not publicly outlined his next move since defeating Ryan Garcia in May. Negotiations with Haney provide a path toward a second titleholder and a higher-profile event at 147.

For Haney, the fight offers an opportunity to unify titles in a new division and answer criticism through activity rather than response.

If an agreement is reached, the WBA mandatory will be deferred. If not, Romero’s next step will be determined by the sanctioning body’s order.