‘I have that chip on my shoulder’: Brian Norman Jr set for comeback after Haney loss

Brian Norman Jr and Josh Wagner at a press conference ahead of their fight on Saturday, May 16, 2026. | Top Rank

Brian Norman Jr will look to get back on track this Saturday, May 16, when he returns to action for his first fight since losing the WBO welterweight title to Devin Haney last November.

The 25-year-old Norman (28-1, 22 KO) had rather quietly emerged as a top welterweight between 2023 and 2025, but struggled in a step up against Haney, but says he’s been hard at work since the defeat, making some changes in his camp, including his lead trainer.

Norman’s corner is now led by the highly-respected Ronnie Shields, who replaces Brian’s father, Brian Norman Sr.

Brian Jr has made clear that there was no conflict with his dad, he just felt the time was right for a change.

“I feel like I need to go out and get more experience,” he said at today’s press conference. “I’m learning to grow each and every day.”

“I’m feeling good, I’m feeling great. I’ve been loving the process, loving the journey, and I’m looking forward to showing what I’ve learned during this time,” he added. “I’ve been working on pace and mindset behind what I’m doing. I’m trying to go out there and let the game come to me.”

Norman says that “of course” he’s motivated by the potential to get another world title fight and perhaps even a rematch with Haney, but that his focus is on Saturday, when he faces Josh Wagner.

“Of course I have that chip on my shoulder, but it’s about going out there, being yourself, and doing what you need to do. The only thing I’m focused on is May 16,” he said.

Wagner promises to bring action: ‘I’m being overlooked’

Wagner (19-2, 10 KO) is a 33-year-old Canadian who has lost two of his last three fights after stepping up the competition a bit. He went to France and was stopped by David Papot in late 2024, and lost a shutout decision to Harlem Eubank in England last November.

“I’m very energetic about this fight. I want to show that I belong here at the top of the 147 division. If they expect me to fight on my backfoot, they have another thing coming,” he said.