Keyshawn Davis will not move forward with a challenge for Devin Haney’s WBO welterweight title, according to new information obtained by The Ring’s Mike Coppinger.
A letter submitted by Davis’ team has formally informed the WBO that the unbeaten American will not proceed with the title fight. The development brings an abrupt end to what had appeared to be the next major step toward a championship clash at welterweight.
The decision comes after Thursday’s purse bid, which was won by Top Rank. Under the terms of the winning bid, Davis was set to earn approximately $2.13 million for the bout.
While the reason behind the withdrawal has not been confirmed in the information available, the official notification to the WBO means the proposed title fight against Haney will not move forward.
The matchup had generated significant interest given the status of both fighters. Haney currently holds the WBO welterweight title, while Davis had been linked with a challenge that could have marked one of the biggest opportunities of his professional career.
Top Rank’s successful purse bid had cleared an important hurdle in making the fight, but the latest development changes the immediate outlook for the division.
For Haney, attention will now likely shift toward whatever direction the WBO takes regarding the championship, while Davis and his team will now focus on their next move outside of this title opportunity. Until further details are released, the reasons behind the withdrawal remain unknown.
The situation serves as another reminder that even after a purse bid is completed, major title fights are not guaranteed until all parties officially commit to moving forward. Boxing fans will now await further clarification from the WBO and the camps involved as the welterweight landscape continues to evolve.
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