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The former champion believes Garcia’s reported negotiations with Conor Benn leave Haney with little reason to delay his mandated WBO title defense against Keyshawn Davis
Tim Bradley believes Devin Haney’s path has become much clearer after Oscar De La Hoya revealed Ryan Garcia is in talks to fight Conor Benn. With a Garcia rematch appearing increasingly unlikely, Bradley says Haney should move forward with his mandated WBO welterweight title defense against Keyshawn Davis
“Guess who called me? Conor Benn’s people, they got in contact with him,” Bradley said on his channel while referencing De La Hoya’s comments. “Ryan Garcia and, of course, Conor Benn. They talking about it. They talking about getting it on.”
Bradley believes that leaves Haney with only one realistic option if he intends to remain WBO welterweight champion.
“Now your only option is Keyshawn Davis. That’s your only option. Who it gonna be? Who else do you got?” Bradley said.
The WBO has already ordered Haney to defend his title against Davis, but Haney has repeatedly been linked to bigger-money fights, including a rematch with Garcia.
With Ryan-Benn now appearing to gather momentum, Bradley argued that Haney can no longer count on that fight materializing. He also urged Haney not to vacate the belt rather than face the unbeaten contender.
“You can’t vacate that title, bro. You’re gonna look like a sucker, bro,” Bradley said. “If somebody’s chasing you like that, you want to get to them before they get to you.”
Bradley believes Haney is catching Keyshawn at the right time, with the former lightweight champion still adjusting to the welterweight division.
“I think it’s the perfect time because he’s just moving up in weight. Your skill, your experience, and what you bring to the table, man. It’s the perfect time, bro. I think it’s the perfect match that can be made,” Bradley said.
If Ryan and Benn finalize a deal, Haney’s path becomes increasingly straightforward. Instead of waiting for another marquee fight, Bradley believes the WBO champion should honor his mandatory obligation and settle the growing rivalry with Keyshawn inside the ring.
Tim Compton is a boxing journalist and contributor to Boxing247.com who has covered the international fight landscape since 2019. He reports on major developments, champions, and rising prospects with a focus on accuracy, sourcing, and analytical clarity.
Source: boxing247.com