Devin Haney has yet to announce his next game. No contract was signed. No date set. But there’s one option in the welterweight division that’s been discussed more seriously than others. A 2026 unification match with Lewis Crocker has quietly been moved to the front.
Why Lewis Crocker was treated differently
Crocker is direct about this. He called the matchup with Devin Haney his ideal matchup and the biggest matchup in the division. Public stance matters. This suggests that at least one party is not posturing or hedging. This is an open invitation.
Hani is also interested. Eddie Hearn confirmed that discussions were through Bill Haney and clearly described it as a unification fight. This language is important. It viewed the move as strategic rather than opportunistic.
Haney’s focus on the welterweight division is obvious. He wants the belt. At 147 pounds, the belt provides leverage. They change their negotiating position. They also shortened the path to the most lucrative matchups later on.
Other names were also mentioned. Gervonta Davis has been named as a possible target, with Bill Haney also expressing interest. A rematch with Ryan Garcia continues to linger in the background. Connor Benn remains part of the long-term game. These are popularity battles. They are driven by audience and money.
Crocker Unification is different. This is a positioning war.
The welterweight championship is coming
Current perceptions of the welterweight title help explain why. Champions are not widely seen as dominant figures. Crocker and Rolando Romero have different risk profiles than past belt holders. For a fighter as disciplined and controlled as Haney, the division offers an opportunity.
There are wider areas developing. Keyshawn Davis could enter the game in 2026 if he passes his upcoming test against Jamaine Ortiz. The results may affect orders rather than plans.
Currently, there is no official news. But of all the possibilities, a tie-up with Crocker followed the clearest logic. It starts by building leverage. Bigger battles can wait.
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Last updated on December 31, 2025







