Former world champion Tim Bradley believes Keyshawn Davis has the style to make WBO welterweight champion Devin Haney uncomfortable. The analysis comes after the WBO ordered Haney to defend his title against mandatory challenger Davis, with negotiations currently underway.
Bradley, a respected analyst, compared the potential issues for Haney to those he faced against Ryan Garcia in 2024. He said: ““It’s gonna be a tough fight for Haney. I definitely feel like Haney has more experience, but I have been watching both styles,”” He then explained Davis’s particular strength in the pocket. Bradley stated: ““The thing about Keyshawn Davis is that he’s so good at mid-range. Keyshawn can be right in front of you, make you miss, and be right there to counter you.””
According to Bradley, the danger comes from Davis’s ability to throw punches without needing to fully set his feet, a trait that previously unsettled Haney. He noted: ““But not falling in with his counters. He lets his shots fly, similar to the way Ryan Garcia throws his combinations.” This offensive approach could prevent Haney from establishing his own rhythm. Bradley continued: ““Ryan Garcia throws his combinations before his feet go with him… and that gave Haney issues. Haney’s not going to like being uncomfortable like that, because Keyshawn is going to come forward.””
Bradley also suggested Haney may resort to clinching to nullify the challenger’s inside work, but noted the effectiveness of that tactic will depend on the referee. Haney captured the WBO welterweight title against Brian Norman Jr. in November, while Davis secured his mandatory position by defeating Nahir Albright in May. If the two camps cannot reach an agreement for the bout, the WBO could order a purse bid to determine the promoter.
