The potential unification showdown between Devin Haney and Rolando Romero has been doused with uncertainty, as mandatory challenger Shakhram Giyasov demands that justice is served.
Despite Giyasov’s status as the WBA ‘interim’ champion, it is now approaching three years and he is still yet to secure his shot at Romero’s world title.
Instead, the WBA welterweight champion has been in negotiations for a showdown with WBO titlist Haney, revealing a possible date and location earlier this month.
But while the pair appeared set to collide at the MGM Grand, Las Vegas, on May 30, there is now a chance that ‘Rolly’ will be ordered to defend his title against Giyasov.
The 30-year-old was elevated from ‘Regular’ to full world champion following his last outing, a unanimous decision victory over Ryan Garcia in May 2025.
After that, the American was exploring a whole host of options, including a rematch with Garcia, before ultimately arriving at the negotiating table with Haney.
‘The Dream’ became a three-division world champion last November, claiming his WBO title at 147lbs by dethroning Brian Norman Jr with a unanimous decision victory.
But while Haney clearly represents his preferred option, it would seem that Romero could instead be compelled to fulfil his mandatory obligation against Giyasov.
Speaking with World Boxing News, the Uzbek called for the WBA to order their fight while, at the same time, confirming his readiness for any world title opportunity.
“I hope that there will be justice. I’m always ready for all fights. It doesn’t matter who the opponent is – the most important [thing is] belts and the big fights.”
The 32-year-old has not fought since last April, back when he defended his ‘interim’ title with a fourth-round stoppage victory over Franco Maximiliano Ocampo.
