Devin Haney’s Instagram promo featuring Shakur Stevenson puts a potentially lucrative matchup back into circulation as his inactivity approaches a year. Their stalled fight offers Haney a recognizable opponent, a winnable contest, and a way to regain attention after months on the sidelines.
Haney shared footage showing him facing off with Shakur, reviving speculation about their fight without confirming that negotiations have resumed. Devin’s side previously appeared willing to accept 144 pounds, but the fight never materialized. If talks restart, the camps would need to clarify whether Haney is still willing to fight at that weight.
The weight remains a potential obstacle. Haney would likely prefer 147 pounds, where he could face the smaller Shakur without cutting extra weight. Shakur previously wanted 144. Agreeing to that would mean Haney coming down three pounds, although we do not know whether the extra weight cut would weaken him.
😈😈😈😈😈 @Realdevinhaney LETS GO!!!!
— Shakur Stevenson (@ShakurStevenson) October 4, 2026
Haney’s jab and reach give him a chance to beat Shakur without having to chase him. He can stay outside and make Shakur come forward to land punches. Both prefer opponents to attack first, so the fight could become cautious, with neither throwing much. Whoever lands his jab more consistently could win those close rounds.
Haney also needs to capitalize on his victory over Brian Norman Jr. from last November. Nearly eleven months have passed since he picked up the WBO welterweight belt. Crossing the November 22 mark without an opponent locked in burns an entire year of his prime. That kind of layoff wastes prime earning power, halts development inside the ropes, and chips away at fan interest.
Viable alternatives exist near 147 pounds if Shakur remains occupied with Gary Antuanne Russell. Richardson Hitchins, Liam Paro, Lewis Crocker, Teofimo Lopez, Jack Catterall, and Arnold Barboza Jr. all represent credible pairings, provided schedules cooperate. Haney has plenty of directions to turn, but he cannot afford to let another month slip by without putting a date on the calendar.
Shakur can pursue another title at 140 against Russell or revisit a potentially bigger payday against Haney. The Haney fight would require him to move up in weight against a larger opponent, making the catchweight agreement a major part of any renewed negotiations.