The welterweight division’s rising star is staying put. WBO world champion Brian “The Assassin II” Norman Jr. has signed a multi-year contract extension with Top Rank, keeping the undefeated knockout artist aligned with one of boxing’s premier promotional outfits.
The 24-year-old Norman (28-0, 22 KOs), widely regarded as one of the sport’s brightest young talents, will defend his title for the third time on November 22 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, against former lightweight king and current pound-for-pound contender Devin “The Dream” Haney.
“When I watch Brian Norman Jr., I think of all the legendary welterweights I’ve promoted,” said Top Rank Chairman Bob Arum. “He has the physical tools and maturity required to become a generational fighter. We are thrilled to be part of the next phase of Brian’s career, which I believe will see him ascend from world champion to the top of the pound-for-pound list.”
For Norman, loyalty was the key factor in his decision. “Top Rank believed in me from the start, and I’m proud to keep building with the home team. We’re only getting started.”
Adrian Clark, CEO of Fighters First Management, echoed the sentiment: “It has been a total team effort to get Brian Norman Jr. to where he is today. I must credit Brian Norman Sr., Jolene Mizzone, and the Hall of Fame matchmakers, Brad Goodman and Bruce Trampler. We are excited to continue our partnership with Top Rank.”
Norman’s path to stardom has been unconventional but effective. He turned professional at just 17, fighting 13 times in Mexico before making his U.S. breakthrough. In May 2024, he announced himself on the world stage with a stunning 10th-round stoppage of Giovani Santillan in San Diego, claiming the WBO interim title. He was elevated to full champion after Terence Crawford vacated the belt.
After recovering from hand surgery that sidelined him for the rest of 2024, Norman returned with a vengeance. In March 2025, he demolished Derrieck Cuevas in three rounds before delivering a Knockout of the Year candidate in June, flattening Japanese contender Jin Sasaki with a brutal left hook in Tokyo.
Now, with his contract secured and confidence at an all-time high, Norman faces the biggest challenge of his career in Devin Haney. A victory would not only solidify his place atop the welterweight throne but also propel him into the conversation for boxing’s pound-for-pound elite.