Ryan Garcia vs. Devin Haney captivated the boxing world with an upset victory for Garcia at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn. With a majority decision, Garcia knocked down Haney three times in a performance that redefined the lightweight division.
Ryan Garcia vs. Devin Haney
From the start, Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) imposed pressure with his speed and power, while Haney (31-1, 15 KOs) tried to control the pace with his jab.
In the seventh round, Garcia connected with a powerful left hook, sending Haney to the canvas for the first time.
Although Haney tried to recover, Garcia landed two more knockdowns in rounds 10 and 11, showing relentless aggression.
The judges scored the fight 115-109 and 114-110 in favor of Garcia, while one saw it 112-112. After the fight, Garcia expressed his joy, “That left hook is blessed by God. When it connects, it changes the fight.”
For his part, Haney admitted his mistakes but made clear his desire for a rematch: “I slept through that hook, but I want another chance.”
The Importance for Both Fighters
For Garcia, this victory represented redemption after his loss to Gervonta Davis in 2023. It reaffirmed his status as an elite figure and opened the door to future title opportunities.
For Haney, the loss marked the first of his professional career, but his resilience proves he is still a top contender.
Why This Fight Matters
The spectacular knockdowns and dramatic twists and turns made this bout an unforgettable fight. It was a reminder of how rivalries define careers and why boxing continues to captivate fans around the world.
On May 1, the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) reported that Ryan Garcia tested positive for Ostarine, a banned substance, the day before and the day of his fight against Devin Haney. Garcia denied the allegations on his social media and claimed to be willing to submit to further testing to prove his innocence.
