Ryan Garcia has set the boxing world abuzz by instructing his team to begin negotiations for a fight with Devin Haney. This development, confirmed by Haney via social media, marks a significant turn in both fighters’ careers. Garcia’s decision to face Haney is seen as a considerable favor to the latter, given Haney’s struggle to secure a high-profile, lucrative bout.
The financial viability of this match-up, however, remains uncertain. With Ryan boasting a substantial social media following and both fighters demanding significant purses, the onus falls on the promoters and DAZN to evaluate the risk of potentially incurring financial losses. This fight’s success hinges on whether it can be organized without external financial backing, such as from Saudi investors.
There is skepticism surrounding the potential competitiveness of the Garcia-Haney fight, especially considering Garcia’s recent performances. Critics point to his bouts against Oscar Duarte and Gervonta Davis, where Garcia showed signs of vulnerability and a lack of improvement in his technique. This has led to mixed reactions from fans, some of whom feel it might be too early for Garcia to face a world champion-level fighter like Haney.
On the other side, Haney welcomes the challenge presented by Garcia. Haney’s options were limited following his rehydration to 165 lbs for the Regis Prograis fight, which branded him as a “weight bully” and made a move to the 147-pound division seem inevitable. The proposed fight with Garcia offers Haney a chance to remain at 140 pounds and face a high-profile opponent.
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