Hearn argues Zuffa Boxing needs a Shakur Stevenson-Devin Haney fight, giving Haney a stronger hand in negotiations
Eddie Hearn believes Devin Haney has more negotiating power than many realize because Zuffa Boxing needs a marquee opponent for Shakur Stevenson. Hearn argued Haney is the fight that best justifies the promotion’s investment in the WBC lightweight champion.
Hearn dismissed the idea that Haney is “in no man’s land,” explaining that the former two-division world champion has leverage because there are few opponents capable of generating the type of event Zuffa needs for Shakur.
“I actually think Devin Haney is in a brilliant position. Devin Haney was going to sign with Zuffa,” said Hearn to K.O Artist Sports. “He probably still will. I don’t know where he’s up to. I know the numbers they’re giving Shakur. Great deal for Shakur. He gave up his legacy, but he’s got legacy, and now he’s got a great deal. Good for him. They really need him to fight Devin Haney. Because when you’re paying someone that much money, who are you going to put him in with?
“The narrative they bleed into fighters is so bizarre. You’ve got Shakur saying, ‘The great thing about this deal is it’s the best fight the best, and I can fight whoever I want.’ No, you can’t. What are you talking about? You’ve got a load of champions and big names on DAZN with other promoters. You can’t fight who you want right now.”
Hearn pointed out that while Jose “Rayo” Valenzuela is a credible fighter, he questioned whether that type of matchup is enough when Zuffa is paying Shakur what he described as enormous money. In his view, Haney remains the opponent that makes the most business sense.
He also suggested Haney and his father, Bill Haney, should recognize the leverage they hold during negotiations.
“They need Devin Haney. They need to make that fight. As much as it pains me to say, the position that Devin and Bill are in right now,” said Hearn. “They should be saying, ‘You actually really need me right now, don’t you, Zuffa?’ Because what other fight is going to be worth paying Shakur that kind of money other than Devin Haney?
“The problem is, when Devin and Bill understand they have leverage, they’re hard work. Good luck to Devin. I think if he plays it right, it’ll be very, very interesting.”
