Bill indicated that discussions with other opponents have taken place because the search continues for Devin’s next bout.
“I spoke to Xander, I’ve spoke to Xander’s manager Peter Khan, and I’ve also spoke to Rolly Romero’s manager,” Bill Haney said to Champside when discussing possible opponents.
Those conversations place Rolando “Rolly” Romero and unified junior middleweight champion Xander Zayas among the many names currently into account as negotiations around Haney’s next appearance proceed.
Ryan Garcia stays essentially the most distinguished storyline connected to Haney’s return. The 2 fighters have continued trading public accusations about billing and financial terms while fans wait to see whether a second fight will materialize.
Bill suggested the general public back-and-forth has not been matched by progress behind the scenes.
“They’re talking on social media, but behind the scenes, they’re not doing the things to make the fight occur,” Bill said.
This sort of situation happens often in boxing. Rivalries dominate headlines while promoters and managers quietly explore other matchups that may move forward more quickly if negotiations stall.
Rolly’s name has circulated for several months as a possible opponent, and Bill confirmed Romero’s team has already initiated contact regarding a possible bout. Zayas also stays a possibility should Haney determine to maneuver as much as junior middleweight, where the Puerto Rican champion has emerged as one among the division’s leading young contenders.
Those options provide the Haney camp with several viable paths while the Ryan rematch stays unresolved.
Bill has indicated that Devin is targeting a return later this yr, with a summer timetable into account as negotiations proceed and the event begins coming together.
