Reports suggest Teofimo Lopez and Devin Haney have reached an agreement for a highly anticipated summer boxing showdown in Saudi Arabia. Both fighters have reportedly signed the necessary paperwork, indicating their readiness for the bout.
Sources close to the negotiations suggest the fight will be contested at a catchweight of 145 pounds and is being targeted for August 16th. Interestingly, this date could potentially feature the fight on the same card as the expected rematch between Gervonta Davis and Lamont Roach Jr.
While the event itself, likely under the banner of Riyadh Season or a Ring Magazine presentation, awaits an official announcement, speculation is rife that Saudi boxing figure Turki Alalshikh is poised to confirm the details in the near future.
These developments come amidst prior friction between Lopez (22-1, 13 KOs) and Alalshikh. It is believed Lopez has since mended his relationship with the influential official, which has paved the way for this significant and potentially very lucrative fight.
The reigning WBO world super-lightweight champion had previously jeopardized discussions with the undefeated Haney (32-0, 15 KOs) following a series of controversial social media posts. Much of his activity on the platform X was directed at Alalshikh, whom Lopez had controversially claimed had `fired` him in messages that were later removed.
These past accusations stemmed from Lopez`s apparent dissatisfaction with the financial offer presented for the potential Haney fight, which he felt was significantly less favorable compared to the terms discussed for a previously considered bout against unified welterweight champion Jaron Ennis.
However, it now seems `The Takeover` has moved past these issues. Following a reported public apology, Lopez has seemingly set aside previous grievances and agreed to face his American rival.
`The Dream`, Devin Haney, also appears to have finalized his agreement for this potentially monumental clash. Both fighters are divisive yet undoubtedly talented multi-division world champions.
Haney`s last performance, a decision win over veteran Jose Ramirez last month, was widely criticized for being uninspired. Lopez, who featured on the same event, delivered a much-improved showing, securing a clear unanimous decision victory against Arnold Barboza Jr., which ended a period of less convincing displays.
