Devin Haney, the 26-year-old former undisputed lightweight champion, stands at a crucial juncture in his career. Despite his impressive achievements, Haney’s reputation took a hit 19 months ago when Ryan Garcia’s left hook knocked him down three times in a fight that was later ruled a no-contest after Garcia failed a drug test. This event sparked debate about Haney’s place among the top pound-for-pound fighters, even though he remained undefeated.
On Saturday, Haney faces another formidable opponent known for his powerful left hook, Brian Norman, aiming to close the chapter on the Barclays Center controversy from April 2024. Haney acknowledges the fight’s significance, saying a victory would restore him to champion status and reaffirm his position at the top.
Haney’s stock has fallen over the last two years, partly due to the Garcia fight and a unimpressive win against Jose Ramirez. Beating Norman, ESPN’s No. 1 welterweight, would shift focus from past setbacks and elevate Haney to the top of a new weight class, while a loss could severely damage his career prospects.
Though Haney was spared a loss when his defeat to Garcia was overturned, the memory of him being battered by Garcia remains vivid. Facing Norman, who likely packs an even stronger punch, is viewed by some experts as either a brave or risky move.
Sergio Mora, former world champion, questions Haney’s decision to fight Norman, considering Haney’s struggles in recent bouts. Mora feels Haney is motivated to silence critics but is unsure if he can fully embrace the challenge. He warns that Haney might be in trouble, but a strong performance could rejuvenate his career.
Despite intense criticism, Haney has consistently proven his critics wrong, often rising to the occasion. After initially being labeled an “email champion” for inheriting the WBC title when Vasily Lomachenko stepped aside, Haney went on to defeat George Kambosos twice and narrowly beat Lomachenko, solidifying his championship status.
Haney prides himself on calling out top opponents rather than seeking easy fights, contrasting with other fighters who often chase publicity over genuine competition. His ability to crush doubts through decisive wins, like his dominant victories against Kambosos and Regis Prograis, has kept him relevant.
Haney admits he is indifferent to criticism and remains focused on beating the best fighters. However, some see his style as unexciting and lacking the power or flair of his contemporaries like Garcia or Gervonta Davis. This has led to mixed perceptions of his talent and status.
Compared to peers such as Shakur Stevenson and Teofimo Lopez, Haney is seen as a versatile but less flashy fighter — a “jack of all trades” without a signature skill set. Shawn Porter, former welterweight champ, suggests Haney’s confidence sometimes overshadows unanswered questions about his in-ring performance.
Haney was once considered part of the “Big Four” of boxing’s new era with Davis, Lopez, and Garcia. Yet unlike the legendary quartets of the past who battled each other, Haney has only faced Garcia among these top rivals — adding to the debate about his standing.
Experts note that Haney’s main strength was his flawless instincts in the ring, but after the Garcia fight, he seemed to lose some of that edge. Porter feels Haney needs to regain his natural rhythm and mindset for the upcoming fight against Norman.
Haney was a heavy favorite against Garcia but was undone by Garcia’s mental tactics and unexpected tactics, including a powerful left hook. Porter views this as a lesson in preparation and humility for Haney, who must prove his greatness by adapting when his instincts fail.
Mora believes Haney is still affected by the Garcia fight and is wary of getting hit, a dangerous combination against a puncher like Norman. Nevertheless, Haney embraces the challenge and sees it as an opportunity to show his resilience, having proven he can get up after tough knocks.
Opinions differ on how pivotal this fight will be for Haney’s career. Mora thinks a loss wouldn’t erase Haney’s accomplishments but acknowledges that even a win may leave some doubts. Porter praises Haney’s willingness to face a tough opponent rather than seek easier fights, reflecting his fighting spirit.
Haney rejects the fear of the unknown and embraces the challenge of tough fights, confident that his ability to recover from adversity will earn him respect. If he wins, many will finally recognize his true status; if not, Haney will continue his pursuit of greatness regardless.
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Fan Take: Devin Haney’s next fight is a defining moment for both his legacy and the welterweight division. His performance could reshape the pound-for-pound landscape and showcase whether resilience and skill can overcome past setbacks in boxing’s competitive era.
