Timothy Bradley believes Keyshawn Davis has the speed, power and mid-range capabilities to make Devin Haney feel “uncomfortable”.
The two welterweights have been ordered to collide for Haney’s WBO title, which the 27-year-old claimed with a unanimous decision victory over Brian Norman Jr in November.
After flooring his man in round two, ‘The Dream’ produced a largely dominant performance and dethroned Norman to become a three-division world champion.
In doing so, Haney may have put some demons to rest following his 2024 encounter with Ryan Garcia, where he suffered three knockdowns before losing a majority decision.
This result was then overturned to a no-contest after Garcia tested positive for ostarine, a banned substance, and received a year-long ban.
Yet still, Hall of Famer Bradley believes Davis could replicate much of the success ‘King Ry’ enjoyed against Haney, who has cemented himself as one of the sport’s most technically polished operators.
In a bid to disrupt the champion’s rhythm, though, Bradley has said on his YouTube channel that he feels Davis must carry out his best work at mid- to short-range.
“It’s gonna be a tough fight for Haney. I definitely feel like Haney has more experience, but I have been watching both styles.
“The thing about Keyshawn Davis is that he’s so good at mid-range. Keyshawn can be right in front of you, make you miss and be right there to counter you.
“But not falling in with his counters – he lets his shots fly … similar to the way Ryan Garcia throws his combinations.
“Ryan Garcia throws his combinations before his feet go with him … and that gave Haney issues. Haney’s not going to like being uncomfortable like that, because Keyshawn is going to come forward.”
Bradley admits this could make for an ugly fight on the inside, but suggests that no-nonsense referee Thomas Taylor, for instance, would not stand for any excessive clinching.
Either way, mandatory challenger Davis has been promised a shot at the WBO title following his unanimous decision victory over Nahir Albright in May.
