Hearn: Haney-Crocker needs Turkish money

Crocker is coming off solid wins over Tyrone McKenna, José Félix Jr. and a title upset over Jaron Ennis’ former training buddy Luis Castillo. He presses hard, fights in a straight line and doesn’t think too much. But without a follow-up in the U.S., Hearn admits the PPV math doesn’t add up — even if Crocker’s pressure could make Haney’s cautious pace worse than usual.

Haney’s problem isn’t talent; it’s a risk. His jab and choke routine has gotten him through twelve safe rounds more than once, but his punch production has dropped off, and the public is seeing it. Crocker doesn’t outplay his opponents, but he forces mistakes by keeping a consistent pace and not giving up ground. Against Haney, this could reveal the lack of urgency Haney shows when things get uncomfortable.

Hear told Belfast Online: “Unless Turki turns around and fights, who is going to pay for this? » He is right. DAZN isn’t going to spend eight figures on a fight that doesn’t sell outside of hardcore circles. Saudi living rooms are now the only place where economic differences do not kill deals.

If unification collapses, Haney stands idly by or risks something he doesn’t want – a mandatory term or Benn in a British stadium fight that could turn politically fast, given Benn’s lingering electability issues. Crocker returns to Belfast to defend the IBF and await an appeal that may never come.

If Haney doesn’t move now, his belt becomes a shield and not a lever. And the shields are eventually removed.