Devin Haney to Challenge Undefeated Brian Norman Jr. for WBO Welterweight Title in Riyadh this November

The boxing world is abuzz with anticipation after it was officially confirmed that former undisputed lightweight champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (32‑0, 15 KOs) will step up to welterweight to challenge undefeated WBO champion Brian Norman Jr. (28‑0, 22 KOs) this November in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, as part of the high-profile Riyadh Season boxing series.

Norman Jr., recognized by The Ring as the world’s No. 1 welterweight, secured his championship status with a spectacular fifth-round knockout of Jin Sasaki on June 19, 2025, in Tokyo—a potent reminder of his power and finishing ability

Haney, the former undisputed lightweight and WBC super lightweight champion, logged a career-defining win on May 2, 2025, taking a unanimous decision over José Ramírez in Times Square. Now moving up to 147 lbs for the first time, he will face his toughest challenge yet .

Under the leadership of promoter Turki Alalshikh, the Riyadh event will also feature David Benavidez vs. Anthony Yarde in the light heavyweight spotlight, making Haney–Norman Jr. the co-headline bout on Saturday, November 22, 2025, at the ANB Arena

Clash of Styles: Speed vs. Power

Brian Norman Jr., at just 24, has shown devastating finishing ability, including a first-round knockout over Derrieck Cuevas in March and the brutal stoppage of Sasaki in June

Devin Haney, 26, brings championship experience and elite boxing acumen. However, critics—like analyst Chris Mannix—question whether his finesse and movement-based style, dubbed “track star tactics,” can withstand the unrelenting pressure and power of Norman Jr.

Implications & What It Means

A win for Haney would make him a three-division world champion, a feat only accomplished by a select few. For Norman Jr., defending his title against a former undisputed champion would elevate his credibility and standing in a talent-rich welterweight division.

Promoter Bob Arum expressed confidence in Norman, even hinting at a potentially smaller 18×18 ft ring to negate Haney’s movement advantage

Mark the Date

Event: Brian Norman Jr. (c) vs. Devin Haney – WBO Welterweight Title

Date: Saturday, November 22, 2025

Venue: ANB Arena, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia (exact venue name pending)

Platforms: Likely DAZN Pay-Per-View, part of Riyadh Season boxing series

This is a defining moment for both fighters: Haney moving up in weight to prove he's elite across divisions, and Norman Jr. defending his reputation against a decorated, experienced adversary. This matchup promises to be a high-stakes test of skill, heart, and power in the welterweight realm.