Devin Haney, once undefeated WBC super-lightweight champion, experienced a significant setback at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, where he faced Ryan Garcia. Despite being highly regarded as one of the world’s finest fighters, Haney was unprepared for Garcia’s explosive power, which led to knockdowns in the seventh, tenth, and eleventh rounds. This marked the first time Haney was knocked down in his career, challenging his ring strategy and resilience. Throughout the fight, even as he continued to rise and battle on after each knockdown, Haney’s performance was unexpectedly lackluster against a formidable yet somewhat predictable opponent.
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At 25 years old, Haney found himself in an unusual position as the underdog against Garcia, who also carries his challenges, notably concerns about his mental health that have captivated public attention. After the fight, a battered and bruised Haney, with a swollen and bleeding face, expressed disappointment in his performance but showed a champion’s spirit by acknowledging his shortcomings and voicing a strong desire for a rematch. He emphasized the oversight in his preparation for Garcia’s notorious left hook, which he had trained for but failed to anticipate in the heat of the moment.
The aftermath of the fight saw both fighters verbally committing to a rematch before even leaving the ring, setting the stage for Haney to possibly reclaim his status and title, given Garcia's failure to make weight. Haney’s readiness to face Garcia again, despite the night’s outcomes and his physical condition, underlines his determination to not only redeem himself but also to affirm his standing as a true champion in the boxing world. As he refrained from speaking to the media post-fight, the boxing community eagerly awaits the next chapter in this high-stakes rivalry.
Image Credit: Golden Boy