Shakur Stevenson is facing public criticism from former champion Tim Bradley for his silence after Devin Haney accepted his 144-pound catchweight demand. Bradley argues Stevenson’s inaction after getting his terms met suggests he may not actually want the high-stakes fight.
The issue centers on negotiations for a potential bout between the two undefeated fighters. After Stevenson cited concerns about fighting at the full welterweight limit, Haney publicly agreed to a 144-pound catchweight to make the fight. Bradley believes Haney made the necessary concession.
Speaking on a podcast, Bradley laid out his frustration with the situation. “I’m like, ‘Oh yeah, that’s meeting in the middle.’ Haney straight-up conceded to that 144, bro. That’s what you said,” Bradley stated. He then pointed directly at Stevenson’s lack of response. “And then you go missing. You go missing. MIA. Hearing crickets. Where you at? He trying to make the damn fight.”
Bradley’s critique went further, questioning Stevenson’s long-term ambitions and suggesting this behavior undermines his claim to be the future of the sport. He recalled his prior praise for the fighter, noting a significant change. Bradley said: “Remember when I said that you was going to take over the throne? No, you’re not.” He added, “I don’t think you’re going to take over the throne, bro. The way you moving, that tells me so, bro. That tells me everything I need to know.”
Compounding the pressure is Devin Haney’s own timeline. The WBO has ordered Haney to defend his welterweight title against mandatory challenger Keyshawn Davis. This obligation puts a clock on any negotiations with Stevenson. If a deal is not reached soon, Haney will likely be forced to move on and fulfill his mandatory defense later this summer. According to Bradley, Haney is the one pushing the action and now appears to hold the stronger position.
