Promoter Bob Arum, of Top Rank company, has recently won the purse bid to stage the fight between WBC light welterweight champion Devin Haney and mandatory challenger Sandor Martin. Despite securing the bid, Arum is uncertain if Haney will sign the contract for the fight within the ten-day period provided.
Haney, with a record of 31-1 and 15 KOs, expressed dissatisfaction with the winning bid of $2.42 million for the fight, as it falls short of his expected payday for defending his WBC 140-lb title against Martin, who holds a record of 42-3 with 15 KOs. Arum acknowledged that Eddie Hearn of Matchroom did not submit a bid, suggesting that other financial priorities may have been in play.
Arum emphasized his interest in the Haney vs. Martin bout, believing Martin to be an underrated opponent and foreseeing an intriguing matchup. Expressing his hope that Haney will commit to the fight, Arum outlined the ten-day window for contract signing. While Martin has signaled his willingness to sign, Haney’s decision remains pending.
Arum maintained a pragmatic stance regarding Haney’s choices, stating that should Haney opt out of the fight and relinquish his title, he would understand the decision. He highlighted the potential for Haney to explore alternative opportunities if he chooses not to face Martin in the ring.
Promoter Bob Arum’s anticipation of Haney’s response to the contract for the mandatory fight against Sandor Martin underscores the complexities of professional boxing negotiations. As the deadline looms for Haney to make a decision, the boxing community awaits the outcome with keen interest, observing the strategic moves and financial considerations at play in the sport.