Tim Bradley has shared strong concerns regarding the rumored showdown between Shakur Stevenson and Devin Haney. He warned that the fight could create more problems than rewards for Stevenson.
Rumors recently circulated about a possible Stevenson vs Haney clash. However, the WBO super lightweight champion dismissed the speculation and downplayed reports linking the two undefeated stars.
Still, Bradley believes the matchup becomes complicated if weight negotiations force Haney into an uncomfortable position, and if fights are held at a catchweight of 144 pounds.
Bradley says weight could become major issue in Stevenson vs Haney
Speaking about the rumored fight on FightHype, Bradley argued that a 144-pound limit could immediately create controversy around the outcome.
“The fight shouldn’t happen,” Bradley said.
According to the former world champion, the weight itself would dominate the narrative regardless of who wins.
“The weight is going to be an issue.”
Bradley explained that if Stevenson defeated Haney under those circumstances, critics would likely refuse to fully credit the victory.
“They’ll say, ‘You weight-drained him just like Tank did with Ryan Garcia,’” Bradley said. “There’ll always be an asterisk next to it.”
Bradley calls Stevenson ‘best fighter in the world’
Despite his concerns about the matchup, Bradley heaps praise on Stevenson, calling him a fighter he highly rates.
“I think he’s the best fighter in the world right now,” Bradley said.
However, he also believes Stevenson faces unique pressure because of both his skill level and outspoken personality.
“Everything he does has to be extremely calculated,” he explained.
Bradley warned Stevenson not to chase short-term money opportunities that could ultimately hurt his legacy.
“Don’t sell yourself short by going to 144 just for the money,” he said.
Bradley wants Stevenson to move to 147
Instead of fighting Haney at a catchweight, Bradley suggested Stevenson should focus on moving fully to welterweight and pursuing championship opportunities there.
“When the time is right, Shakur has to go to 147,” Bradley said.
The former champion believes that path carries far greater upside for Stevenson’s long-term reputation.
“Go to 147 for that strap.”
Bradley ultimately advised Stevenson to avoid the Haney fight altogether unless both men meet naturally at welterweight.
“If you’re not going to 147, don’t even mess around with Haney,” he said.
According to Bradley, the matchup becomes a no-win situation for Stevenson under the wrong conditions.
“Even if you beat him, you won’t get the credit.”
He also emphasized that Haney would likely hold the advantage if the fight takes place at the full welterweight limit of 147 pounds and believes the champion could come out victorious under those conditions. However, he pointed out that a catchweight of 144 pounds would likely weaken Haney physically and shift the edge toward Stevenson.
Bradley suggested that Stevenson should not rush to 147 pounds immediately. Instead, he believes the unbeaten champion should spend around six months preparing his body properly, adding muscle, and growing naturally into the welterweight division before pursuing a fight against Haney.
Meanwhile, Stevenson called out Conor Benn following his victory over Teofimo Lopez. However, Benn’s recent move to Zuffa Boxing has complicated the situation, leaving uncertainty around who Stevenson could face next.
