“I want to see Devin against Keyshawn,” said Mannix on his podcast while breaking down Haney’s immediate future. He added that the matchup offered a more appealing stylistic contrast than Haney against Stevenson.

Mannix also pointed to the WBO title picture, noting that Haney may not have the luxury of waiting if he intends to retain his position at welterweight.

“The WBO in early July is going to order Keyshawn Davis to fight Devin Haney for that 147-pound belt,” Mannix said. “That means there’ll be about 30 days for negotiations. Then the fight would go to a purse bid.”

While Mannix acknowledged the intrigue surrounding Haney versus Stevenson, he questioned whether now is the right time for the fight. Stevenson is still relatively new to the higher weight classes, while Haney appears physically settled at welterweight.

Mora initially favored Haney facing Stevenson because of the star power attached to the matchup. However, after hearing Mannix’s reasoning regarding the WBO situation and the physical differences between the fighters, he softened his stance.

“If these guys aren’t meant to be colliding at the right time at the prime time then don’t force it,” Mora said. “Let Shakur get a little bit bigger and let Haney take on another great fighter and another great challenge and someone like Keyshawn.”

Haney’s next move could have major consequences for the rest of the welterweight division. A deal with Zuffa Boxing has been widely discussed, while the possibility of a fight with Stevenson continues to attract interest from fans.

However, if the WBO follows through with its expected order, Haney may soon have to decide whether Keyshawn Davis becomes his next opponent or whether he is willing to walk away from another world title opportunity.