Haney’s plans changed dramatically over the past several days. Shakur Stevenson publicly ended hopes of their matchup, removing the biggest fight available. Shortly afterward, mandatory challenger Keyshawn Davis declined the WBO-ordered title fight, leaving Haney free to pursue a different direction.
The Australian southpaw captured the IBF title in June. Fighting Paro gives Haney a chance to collect a second welterweight belt rather than defend against a lower-ranked contender. It also pairs him with a reigning champion coming off the biggest victory of his career in a matchup with genuine unification stakes.
The business case is strong for both sides. Haney remains one of boxing’s biggest attractions, while Paro has become a proven draw in Australia. A unification backed by No Limit Boxing would also generate additional revenue through the Australian pay-per-view market.
With the Stevenson fight gone and the Keyshawn Davis route closed, Haney needed another marquee opponent. Paro checks several boxes: another world title, unification stakes, and the financial upside of the Australian market, making him one of the most attractive opponents available at welterweight for the division’s future.
