Haney and Shakur have recently been linked to a potential 144-pound catchweight bout. Bill Haney has repeatedly stated that Shakur remains the preferred opponent, while Keyshawn has publicly pushed for his title shot.
Olivieri indicated that Haney’s mandatory obligation takes priority.
“As of now, what I can confirm is that Haney has to discharge his mandatory against Keyshawn,” Olivieri said on Cigar Talk.
When asked if an exemption could be granted to allow Haney and Shakur to meet first, Olivieri said that would not be possible at this stage because the mandatory process is already underway.
“At this stage, at this juncture, it cannot be allowed as an exception because there’s a mandatory pending,” Olivieri said.
The WBO president explained that once the formal order is issued, the camps will be given a negotiation period before a purse bid can be scheduled if no agreement is reached. He also warned that champions who fail to satisfy mandatory obligations can face disciplinary proceedings, including the possibility of being stripped of their titles.
The comments provide the clearest indication yet that Haney may have to deal with Keyshawn before pursuing a fight with Shakur. While speculation continues regarding future plans involving Zuffa Boxing and other opportunities, the WBO’s position is straightforward: Keyshawn is next in line, and the mandatory order is coming.
