Devin Haney has recently declared his intention to demonstrate his superiority over WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr. This statement marks a notable shift in Haney’s career, as he ventures into the 147-pound division, a weight class known for its ferocity and deep talent pool. Haney’s confidence appears to be sky-high, asserting that Norman Jr. is untested at the elite level and that he will prove to be “too much” for him on November 22nd. His words suggest he views this matchup not just as a fight but as a definitive statement of his dominance—a chance to elevate his standing in the boxing world.
While Haney positions himself as a seasoned veteran who will showcase his advanced skill set, there’s an undercurrent of overconfidence embedded within his remarks. He dismisses Norman Jr.’s previous performances by claiming that they were against inferior opponents, and consequently, he believes his victory will cement his status as the best in the 147-lb division. However, the truth is that Norman Jr. is largely untested against the kind of high-caliber fighters that define true greatness in boxing. Such bravado might boost his confidence, but it also places an enormous burden of proof on his shoulders.
Evaluating the Claims: Is Haney Truly the Best?
Despite Haney’s assertions, the reality of boxing’s competitiveness complicates his claims. Asserting dominance over Norman Jr. doesn’t automatically make him the undisputed king of the welterweight division. To earn that title, he must conquer a roster of established contenders such as Ryan Garcia, Shakhram Giyasov, Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, Eimantas Stanionis, Karen Chukhadzhian, and Conor Benn. Each of these fighters brings their own unique skill set and experience to the ring, making the path to true supremacy much more arduous than a single victory might suggest.
Critics point out that Haney’s wins over fighters like Vasily Lomachenko, Jorge Linares, and others, are somewhat inflated or, at best, not as convincing as they appear. Many fans feel Haney received favorable decisions in close fights, notably against Lomachenko—a bout that many believe Lomachenko won. Additionally, victories over older fighters such as Ramirez and Diaz Jr. are often viewed as less impactful due to their declining form and aging bodies. Here lies a core critique: Haney’s resume, while sprinkled with notable names, lacks the consistent dominance needed to solidify claims of being “the best.”
The Reality of the Fight: What’s at Stake for Haney?
If Haney manages to surpass Norman Jr., it would be a significant, albeit not definitive, step toward claiming the welterweight throne. Yet, winning this fight alone isn’t enough to silence critics or overhaul decades of boxing hierarchy. The sport’s history shows that dominance is measured through sustained performance against elite opponents. Haney’s assertion that he has “been fighting the best fighters for some time” overlooks the fact that many of those fights, in the eyes of critics, have been controversial or less commanding than they need to be.
Additionally, the setting of the fight in Riyadh introduces another layer of complexity. Judges in the region, influenced by local promoters and officials—such as Turki Alalshikh—are under pressure to produce entertaining bouts. This dynamic raises concerns about subjective scoring, especially if Haney’s fighting style resembles his previous performances—marked by cautious, technical moves rather than outright aggression. A fight that turns into a “Tom and Jerry” spectacle, as critics describe, could lead to a controversial decision going against Haney if he doesn’t adapt and bring a more engaging effort.
Ultimately, Devin Haney’s bravado and conviction serve as a double-edged sword. On one hand, their boldness can inspire confidence and motivate a fighter to perform at their absolute best. On the other, such claims sometimes reveal a lack of humility and a misjudgment of the true caliber required to be called “the best.” Boxing has a long history of fighters overestimating their dominance before truly earning it, and Haney’s current stance fits within this pattern.
If he is to truly establish himself as a dominant force at 147, he must back up his words with consistent, jaw-dropping performances against top-tier opponents. Until then, his claims will remain aspirational—impressive in rhetoric but lacking in the undeniable proof that history demands. Confidence is vital, but it must be proportionate to the fighter’s readiness and their record. For Haney, the journey to legitimacy continues in Riyadh, but only victory over Norman Jr., combined with future wins, can truly let him claim the throne.