Overview
- The two fighters posted conflicting accounts on X on Friday, October 16, 2026, with Stevenson saying Haney shifted from 144/145 to 147 pounds and Haney saying he agreed to 145 and that Stevenson tried to add a rehydration clause.
- Neither camp has produced emails or a signed bout contract to prove either version, so promoters and fans have no confirmed date, venue or formal deal.
- Bill Haney told media that November 28 in Atlanta had been under consideration and that an offer was presented, but that proposed date remains unconfirmed after the public breakdown.
- The core dispute centers on two different contract terms: the pre-fight catchweight number (reports referenced 144, 145 and 147 pounds) and a separate rehydration clause that would limit weight regained after the official weigh-in.
- Promotional alignments, a reported purse-split debate and the WBO’s mandatory-challenger issues have added logistical hurdles, so the fight’s future now depends on fresh private talks, contractual proof or formal announcements from the camps.