Devin Haney’s Career Crossroads
Devin Haney, the former undisputed lightweight champion, finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career at just 26 years old—a rarity in the boxing world where many competitors have yet to reach his level of achievement by this age. However, his journey has encountered turbulence, notably stemming from an incident nearly a year and a half ago when Ryan Garcia’s left hook sent him to the canvas three times. This bout was ultimately deemed a no-contest, as Garcia failed a drug test, but the impact on Haney’s reputation lingered. Critics began to question his position among the elite pound-for-pound fighters, despite the fact he technically didn’t record a loss.
Upcoming Fight Against Brian Norman
This weekend, Haney faces another formidable opponent, Brian Norman, known for his potent left hook. As he prepares for this crucial match, Haney emphasizes the significance of overcoming this perceived challenge:
“This fight is super important because they say he is my kryptonite… A win means everything to me. I’ll be a champion again, and it puts me back on top where I once was,”
Haney told ESPN.
Haney’s recent performances, including a tepid win against Jose Ramirez, have led to a decline in his public perception. Winning against Norman, the top-ranked welterweight according to ESPN, could restore his status and divert attention from his past struggles. Conversely, a loss could have devastating consequences for his career at such an early stage.
Criticism and Public Perception
The aftermath of the Garcia bout was defined by the change from a decision loss to a no-contest, yet many fans vividly recall Haney being overwhelmed by Garcia’s punches. His choice to fight Norman, who may deliver an even harder punch, has drawn criticism. Sergio Mora, a former world champion now serving as a commentator, expressed concern:
“When you’re coming off the worst night of your life against Ryan Garcia… why would you fight the hardest puncher at welterweight? This tells me that Haney has something to prove.”
Despite his criticism, Haney maintains a competitive spirit, stating,
“All I want is to fight the best fighters in the world.”
Over the years, he has silenced detractors with impressive performances, including triumphs over George Kambosos and Regis Prograis. Yet, setbacks like those against Garcia and Lomachenko resurface doubts about his abilities.
Haney’s Fighting Style and Identity
Haney himself has acknowledged the divisive nature of public opinion:
“People love to hate me… I embrace it now. What can I do? I am me.”
His fighting style, while technically proficient, has drawn comparisons to Floyd Mayweather—noted for its strategic nature but sometimes criticized for a lack of excitement.
Critics suggest Haney has yet to answer significant questions regarding his prowess, especially considering he belongs to the current cohort of boxers known as “the Four Kings”, alongside Gervonta Davis, Teofimo Lopez, and Garcia. In contrast to their distinct strengths, such as explosive power or rapid hand speed, Haney’s identity in the ring remains less defined, which can be both an advantage and a limitation.
Future Implications
Shawn Porter, another former champion, remarked on Haney’s current trajectory, suggesting that his instinctive capabilities may have diminished after the Garcia fight:
“His ego got the better of him, and he forgot who he was,”
Porter asserted, urging Haney to reconnect with his fundamental fighting identity for the upcoming match.
As Haney prepares for this crossroads fight, both Mora and Porter have differing views on its implications. While Mora suggests that a loss wouldn’t erase his past accomplishments, Porter emphasizes that Haney’s approach to this match will significantly shape his future. Haney himself expresses confidence in his abilities:
“You don’t know if a fighter can take a punch until they actually get hit… I got up off the floor, not once, not twice, but three times.”
Despite the inherent risks, Haney remains undeterred, embracing challenges head-on:
“A lot of people fear the unknown… What if I get hit? What am I going to do? Well, the world knows what I’m going to do.”
He aims to face Norman with the intention of not just winning, but re-establishing his legacy and silencing any remaining doubters along the way.
Ultimately, the implications of this fight extend beyond a simple victory. It might very well define Haney’s future as he seeks greatness and strives to quell the criticism that has followed him throughout his career.
