Shakur Stevenson has officially ruled out a potential bout against Devin Haney, ending months of public speculation. The four-division champion accused Haney’s team of using his name for attention rather than negotiating in good faith, officially closing talks.
Negotiations between the two camps shifted multiple times over recent months. Initial discussions focused on a proposed 144-pound catchweight before complications arose regarding divisional mandatory positions. The situation grew complex when Keyshawn Davis became the WBO mandatory challenger to Haney’s welterweight title. Stevenson publicly urged Haney to vacate the title rather than defend it against Davis, wishing to avoid standing in the way of his friend.
The dynamic changed once more when Davis declined the WBO purse bid after Top Rank secured promotional rights. That move removed the mandatory obstacle and briefly revived public discussion surrounding a Stevenson-Haney matchup. However, despite further public exchanges between both sides, no binding contractual agreement followed.
Stevenson addressed the breakdown directly on social media, confirming he has ended all dialogue.
He stated: “I’m too real for fake shit. I allowed these same dudes who played bitch games wit me years ago to amp me up and get me hyped for a fight that’s not even gone happen. This my last time letting these dudes clout chase my name when at heart I just wanted a fight on the terms that was agreed on,”
He added: “I won’t be entertaining the circus anymore. Sorry, boxing and boxing fans, but u will never get that fight. Door is closed… no more response from me ever again! #HIM.”
The announcement effectively closes the chapter on one of boxing’s most talked-about matchups. Both fighters now move toward separate divisional requirements. Stevenson faces an upcoming November WBO mandatory deadline, while trainer Robert Garcia has signaled intent to pursue a mandatory position for Raymond Muratalla. Meanwhile, discussions persist regarding Haney’s standing and potential WBO Super Champion status.
