Matchroom promoter Eddie Hearn is keen on setting up a unification fight between newly crowned IBF light welterweight champion Liam Paro and WBC champ Devin Haney. However, there are several hurdles that need to be cleared for this matchup to materialize. The WBC mandatory challenger for Haney, Sandor Martin, and Paro’s IBF mandatory challenger, Richardson Hitchinson, pose initial obstacles. These mandatory challengers could potentially be dealt with by either negotiating a step aside or seeking permission from the IBF and WBC to prioritize the unification bout. In case of resistance, financial compensation may be the solution to pave the way for the desired fight.
A significant roadblock in the way of a Haney-Paro clash is the IBF’s stringent 10-pound rehydration limit. This regulation could impede Haney’s ability to rehydrate to his usual fighting weight after the weigh-in. Haney typically gains weight and rehydrates to the mid-160s for his fights at 140 pounds. Sustaining a weight of 150 pounds or lower on the day of the fight following the IBF’s rehydration cap seems improbable for Haney. Failure to meet this limit could leave Haney drained and vulnerable against a tactician like Paro, who employs a grappling-heavy style. The weight disadvantage could put Haney at a significant disadvantage, allowing Paro to capitalize on his weakened state.
Bill Haney, Devin’s father, has expressed a preference for his son to engage in high-profile pay-per-view (PPV) bouts that draw considerable interest. While a unification fight with Paro may seem enticing from a sporting perspective, it lacks the market appeal needed to attract U.S boxing audiences unfamiliar with Paro. The absence of a recognizable opponent could significantly impact the PPV sales and limit Haney’s bargaining power for future lucrative matchups against marquee names in the division, such as Gervonta Davis, Teofimo Lopez, Isaac Cruz, or Ryan Garcia. Paro’s recent victory over Surbriel Matias may have elevated his standing, but his unexciting fighting style characterized by excessive holding might not resonate well with fans, potentially diminishing the fight’s allure.
While the prospect of a Haney-Paro unification bout holds promise in terms of sporting significance, various obstacles must be overcome to translate this vision into reality. Negotiating with mandatory challengers, navigating rehydration restrictions, and addressing marketability concerns are crucial aspects that need careful consideration. Without a strategic approach to surmount these challenges, the potential showdown between Haney and Paro may remain an elusive dream for boxing fans.