Riyadh plan fails to secure Ryan Garcia rematch for Devin Haney

Bill Haney no longer expects Riyadh’s organisers to arrange a rematch between his son Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia. Devin returned from the event with a welterweight belt, but without any commitment to face Garcia again.

Haney had taken Devin to Riyadh believing the appearance would support the wider effort to make the rematch. He has now changed that approach after concluding that the people directing the events have other priorities. Bill has told his team to focus on securing a main event for Devin, regardless of the opponent.

Garcia’s next fight is scheduled for September 12 against Conor Benn. Zuffa Boxing and The Ring are presenting the contest, with Turki Alalshikh involved. The winner could have several options at 147 pounds, making Devin one of at least six fighters competing for Garcia’s attention.

A Garcia-Benn rematch would be possible if their meeting produces an entertaining contest. Garcia could also find a compelling opponent in the winner of Rolly Romero’s fight with Teofimo Lopez. Other names identified as potential Garcia opponents include Richardson Hitchins, Keyshawn Davis and Shakur Stevenson. A Teofimo victory would create another significant fight, while Romero’s success could give Garcia the chance to avenge his 2025 defeat.

Devin’s victory over Brian Norman Jr. has not strengthened his position as Garcia’s obvious next opponent. He won the belt through a cautious performance that featured repeated clinches when Norman moved into range. That style offered little evidence of the high-action contest that could attract another major investment, particularly after Turki had previously criticised Devin’s low-output win over Jose Ramirez in Times Square.

The Haneys also have other routes to keep Devin active. Bill could pursue IBF champion Liam Paro, whose team showed interest without receiving an offer, or WBA regular champion Jack Catterall. Catterall had agreed to a proposed date and Atlanta venue before communication from Devin’s side ended. His mandatory position may soon allow him to pursue the winner of Romero and Lopez instead.

With no Riyadh matchmaking commitment and other Garcia options gaining importance, Devin’s inactivity risks weakening his claim to the rematch. The immediate task for Bill Haney is to secure another meaningful fight before Paro, Catterall or Garcia’s other possible opponents move on.