Conor Benn, the rising British welterweight boxing star, has sent a stern warning his way to Devin Haney, the American undefeated lightweight boxing ace. Benn has openly expressed his desire to face Haney at 147, which could spell tumult for the latter.
Benn is currently enjoying an invincible run in the welterweight category, boasting a remarkable record of 18 victories in 18 fights. He has an impressive fourteen knockouts to his name and has successfully defended his WBA Continental Welterweight title five times.
Meanwhile, Haney, who holds the WBC Lightweight Champion title, has also been undefeated in his 26 professional fights, with 15 of them ending in a knockout. However, while Haney’s exceptional track record makes him a formidable foe inside the ring, his potential decision to compete in the 147 category against Benn could see him biting off more than he can chew.
Benn is known for his aggressive style and exceptional punching power. Moving up to 147 could expose Haney to a new level of physical punishment in the form of the erudite and bullish Benn. Moreover, switching weight categories can often prove adverse for boxers as it demands drastic body transformations that can detract from their performances.
In an interview, Benn stated, “If Devin Haney wants to fight me at 147, he needs to understand what he’s signing up for. This is not the lightweight category. It’s a different ball game entirely.”
While Benn has Haney in his crosshairs, the 24-year-old pugilist has also revealed that he has other options for his upcoming bout. He has admitted that former WBA Super Lightweight Champion, Mario Barrios, is a potential candidate.
Despite his recent loss to Gervonta Davis, Barrios has earned his respect in the boxing community. The 26-year-old American boxer has 26 wins to his name, out of which 17 are knockouts. A match between Benn and Barrios can potentially be an electrifying encounter.
Talking about Barrios as his next potential opponent, Benn said, “I want Barrios next. It’s a more substantial fight at 147.” Benn added that he believes a showdown with Barrios would test his skills and resilience like never before.
However, for now, Benn’s ultimate desire to lock horns with Haney remains unabated. The intensifying verbal spar between Benn and Haney has unquestionably set the stage for a potential high-voltage showdown inside the ring.
But whether Haney will comply and make a jump to the 147 weight category to counter Benn remains to be seen. Haney possesses sublime technical skills, impressive footwork, and fast hands. A matchup between Benn’s raw power and Haney’s speed and tactics could potentially create a classic fight that boxing fans will remember for years to come.
While Benn readies himself for a ruthless “WAR,” it is up to Haney and his entourage to decide whether to accept the challenge or continue to dominate in his current weight category. The fight card is yet to be finalized, and the global boxing fraternity eagerly awaits what could be one of the most thrilling fights of the year.
To conclude, whether it be Barrios or Haney, Conor Benn seems ready to face any challenge that comes his way. One thing is certain – the British welterweight is on a mission to cement his place at the top of the boxing world, and he’s leaving no stone unturned to reach there.
