Lance Pugmire reviews that WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr has “verbally agreed” to face Devin Haney “later this yr,” doubtlessly this coming November.
Norman (28-0, 22 KO) has emerged as Jaron Ennis’ inheritor obvious for the division, asserting his arrival with a dramatic beatdown of the red-hot Giovani Santillan earlier than following up with maulings of Derrieck Cuevas and Jin Sasaki, the latter of which stays the frontrunner for Knockout of the 12 months. He seems to be coming into his personal on the age of 24 and has constantly confirmed himself must-watch TV.
Haney (32-0, 15 KO), his most embellished opponent thus far, will enter the ring in very totally different circumstances. Ryan Garcia’s failed drug take a look at wasn’t almost sufficient to revive the luster Haney misplaced of their combat and his ring return, a grievously boring determination over the pale Jose Ramirez, didn’t cowl the distinction.
That is do-or-die for Haney and an opportunity for Norman to introduce himself to the overall boxing public. With Mario Barrios occupied and the WBA and IBF belts in want of latest homeowners, I just like the matchmaking right here.
