In a stunning turn of events, Ryan Garcia handed Devin Haney his first career defeat with a majority decision on April 20. The fight was originally set for the WBC super lightweight title, but after Garcia missed the 140-pound weight limit by over three pounds, it was reclassified as a non-title bout. Despite the change, Garcia’s presence in the ring was imposing, and he shared his intentions to move up to welterweight in the post-fight press conference. He stated, “I’m moving up. I’m not doing 140 [pounds]. I’m going to 147 [pounds]. I can’t make 140 [pounds]. I never even technically fought at 140. I fought every time at 143 [pounds]. My body literally can’t go lower than 143, it’s impossible. I tried every technique, I can’t do it.”
Garcia’s victory was a significant upset, as he entered the fight as a +500 underdog against the undefeated Haney. His behavior leading up to the fight had sparked controversy and skepticism, with many questioning whether the fight would proceed as planned. However, Garcia proved his critics wrong with one of the best performances of his career, overcoming the odds and securing the win.
Adding to the pre-fight drama, Garcia admitted to drinking every day during his training camp for the Haney clash. His actions during the ceremonial weigh-ins, where he was seen consuming what appeared to be a beer, and his candid discussions about alcohol and cannabis use during pre-fight press events, left fans and commentators bewildered about his seriousness. After his victory, Garcia openly discussed his unconventional preparation, saying, “I walked through the fire, and still held it down. And still beat Devin Haney. And still drank every day. And still beat him. I did everything. What the f**k? False reality right? Drank every single night, went out on the first Monday and Tuesday and drank… Not necessarily am I proud of it, but I’m just saying.”
With the fight’s outcome and the surrounding circumstances, the question now arises whether there should be a rematch between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney, but this time at 147 pounds. The idea of a rematch has been put to a public poll, inviting opinions on whether the two fighters should face each other again in the welterweight division. The poll reflects the interest and speculation among fans about the potential for another electrifying encounter between these two talented boxers.
