Former unified welterweight champion Keith Thurman has recently fired some sharp words towards the two-time lightweight champion Devin ‘The Dream’ Haney and his father, Bill Haney. Thurman bluntly stated that Haney Sr. lacks the balls to put his son up against him in the ring.
This dispute arose when the elder Haney dared to list some of the most prominent figures in welterweight boxing, including Thurman, as potential opponents for his son. Thurman, known for his bold outspoken style, did not mince his words when he confronted the elder Haney during an Instagram Live session.
“Listen, man. I don’t got no contract with no signature on it, man. You ain’t even talking to Al [Haymon], you ain’t talking to nobody. Don’t talk about me. You ain’t got balls to make a contract.” Thurman lashed out.
What’s most striking about Thurman’s fierce criticism is the challenge it poses not only to Devin Haney but also to Bill Haney, who doubles as Devin’s manager. Thurman’s accusation of the father-son pair not having the nerve to square up against him in the ring has significantly intensified the feud.
Thurman’s last fight was in 2019 against Manny ‘Pacman’ Pacquiao, where the unanimous decision went in favor of the Filipino champion. Since then, he has been outside the ring dealing with injuries, but according to recent TV broadcasts and social media posts, Thurman is ready to get back in the ring.
Devin Haney, meanwhile, is one of the rising stars in the lightweight division. Despite his noticeable talent and skill, criticisms have often resurfaced about the level of his competition. By moving up to the welterweight division to face someone like Thurman, Haney would shut down these criticisms once and for all.
For Bill Haney, Thurman might just be the high-profile bout Devin needs to solidify his status among the elite. Thurman may not currently hold a world title, but his résumé speaks volumes about his quality. Names like Shawn Porter, Danny Garcia, and Manny Pacquiao are among his notable opponents, with Thurman often delivering thrilling performances during these bouts.
However, even with the challenge thrown open by Thurman, arranging such a fight would not be without complexities. Professional boxing encounters hinge on several factors, including schedules, contracts, and money. Granted, a match-up between the ‘One Time’ Thurman and the ‘The Dream’ Haney would undoubtedly generate considerable interest among boxing fans, and potentially, a lucrative payday for the fighters and their managements.
Only the coming weeks will settle whether these barbs on social media will turn into a signed contract or remain as a boxing fantasy. However, one thing remains certain; these public spats keep the fans on the edge of their seats and fuel anticipation for potential future showdowns.
Amid all these, one cannot overlook the undeniable allure that comes with Thurman vs. Haney. Beyond just a clash of talents, it would be a match pitting experience against youthful exuberance. Many boxing pundits and fans worldwide anxiously await such a showdown.
As Thurman pointedly remarked, “Ball’s in your court, Haney.” Will the Haneys have the nerve to pick up the gauntlet that Thurman has threw down? Only time will tell. Now, the boxing fraternity waits with bated breath for their response.
