“My next fight is definitely going to be a credible name, a name bigger than Jamaine Ortiz,” Keyshawn said to Fight Hub TV.
Since stopping Jamaine Ortiz in the 12th round on January 31 at Madison Square Garden, Keyshawn has openly called for bigger fights. In interviews and on social media, he has mentioned names across the junior welterweight and welterweight divisions, including Devin Haney, Isaac “Pitbull” Cruz, Richardson Hitchins, Lewis Crocker, and Lamont Roach Jr.
Those challenges followed a performance Keyshawn has pointed to as evidence that he belongs among the top contenders. He dropped and stopped Ortiz in a fight where several previous opponents had gone the distance with the durable contender. Now, Keyshawn says the next step will bring him into the welterweight title picture.
“I think I’m moving up,” Keyshawn said when asked about the weight for his next fight, confirming plans to compete at 147 pounds and indicating that the bout will be for a world championship.
Keyshawn did not name an opponent, but he suggested the fight will represent a step up from his recent outing. He also said discussions for the bout have already taken place and that his return could come sooner than many expect.
A move to welterweight would place Keyshawn in one of boxing’s most competitive divisions, where several established contenders are already competing for title opportunities and championship fights remain in constant demand.
One possible opponent at 147 is IBF champion Lewis Crocker, a name Keyshawn has mentioned while discussing future fights. Keyshawn has previously said he would be willing to travel to the United Kingdom to challenge Crocker if a title opportunity becomes available. No agreement has been announced, but the matchup has emerged as one potential path if he moves directly into the welterweight title picture.
For now, Keyshawn says preparations for his return are already underway as talks continue for the fight he expects to contest for a world title.
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