Promoter says respect remains but purse must fit event value for any future agreement
Eddie Hearn says he still respects Devin Haney but any future deal must meet Matchroom’s pricing. The promoter made clear that purse levels will depend on the opponent and the scale of the event.
Hearn had recently questioned whether Haney’s purse expectations matched the current market, suggesting some of the figures attached to the former undisputed lightweight champion were beyond what promoters would pay for regular fights. In fresh comments, he softened the tone personally while standing by the financial reality.
“I love Devin, but Devin knows our number,” Hearn said to iFLTV.
The remark pointed to an existing offer range from Matchroom, while also indicating Haney is looking for a higher guarantee elsewhere.
“He’s not really interested in that number. We’re not falling out, but if he can get a crazy deal from someone that really needs him or to make a statement, take it,” Hearn said.
Hearn also suggested Haney remains a major commercial asset in the right type of event, particularly when paired with a proven rival such as Ryan Garcia. A rematch between the two would likely generate significantly more interest than a standard defense.
“Devin against Ryan Garcia, Devin’s got great value. But Devin against just a defense, there’s a ceiling to the purse,” Hearn said.
That distinction appears central to Matchroom’s stance. A blockbuster fight can justify a different level of spending than a routine title defense against a lesser-known challenger.
Hearn’s message was that Haney still carries star value, but not every fight can be priced like a major event.
Haney remains one of boxing’s most recognizable names and a former two-division champion, but his next promotional move is still unclear. Hearn’s comments showed there is no personal issue between the sides, while also making it clear that admiration alone will not determine the size of any future offer.