Haney Dominates Norman to Secure WBO Welterweight Championship in Decisive Victory

Devin Haney decisively won the WBO welterweight championship by defeating Brian Norman Jr. in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Haney secured the title via unanimous decision with judges scoring 117-110, 116-111, and 114-113.

This fight marked Haney’s first official bout at 147 pounds, after previously competing at a 144-pound catchweight. Critics had questioned his durability and ability to compete effectively at welterweight after his controversial loss to Ryan Garcia, which was later ruled a no contest due to Garcia’s failed drug test.

Haney showed resilience and power, knocking Norman down early in round two. His jab controlled the pace of the fight and kept Norman, known for his knockout power, at bay throughout the bout. Haney also displayed a surprising willingness to fight in close quarters, landing effective check hooks.

Brian Norman Jr., despite a strong reputation highlighted by his Knockout of the Year earlier in the year, struggled to match Haney’s speed and ring generalship. Norman’s nose was heavily bloodied by the second round, and swelling around his eye worsened as the fight progressed.

Haney, who turned 27 recently, described his transformation since the tough setback last year. “In 2024, I lost everything. Everything came crashing down on me. In 2025, I came to get it back,” he said. “In 2026, I’m coming for everything.”

The new champion’s camp is currently considering future opponents but has not confirmed any names. A rematch with Ryan Garcia, who also recently moved up to welterweight, remains a highly anticipated possibility. Garcia was recently beaten by Rolando Romero for the vacant WBA welterweight title, which complicated immediate plans for a Haney-Garcia rematch.

Haney expressed confidence in competing at 147 pounds long term. He said, “This is a weight class I was supposed to be at for a long time. I’m here to stay at 147 for a long time.” This victory not only adds to his legacy as a three-division world champion but also positions him as a major player in the welterweight division moving forward.