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Devin Haney to Ryan Garcia: 'I Need That Get Back'
Henrietta Wildsmith/The Times

Devin Haney to Ryan Garcia: 'I Need That Get Back'

Originally posted on Dice City Sports  |  By Robert LaMar  |  Last updated May 4, 2026 9:03 PM ET
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Devin Haney knows exactly what he wants next. And it starts with redemption. Speaking on Inside The Ring, Haney named a rematch with Ryan Garcia as his top “dream fight” a high-stakes unification bout that would settle unfinished business from their controversial first meeting.

Haney and Garcia first collided in April 2024, where Garcia earned a majority decision victory. However, the result was later overturned to a no-contest after Garcia tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine.

For Haney, the experience still left a mark and a lesson. “I need that get back,” Haney said. “I learned so much in that fight about myself.”

Now 33-0 (15 KOs), Haney has used that setback as fuel, evolving into a more complete fighter and reclaiming his position at the top of the sport.

Welterweight Stakes at an All-Time High

Since their first fight, both fighters have elevated their status:

  • Haney captured the WBO welterweight title with a dominant win over Brian Norman Jr.
  • Garcia claimed the WBC belt with a one-sided victory over Mario Barrios

With both champions now holding titles at 147 pounds, a rematch would be a massive unification bout and potentially one of the biggest fights in boxing.

Respect for Garcia’s Impact

Despite the rivalry, Haney’s contemporaries acknowledge Garcia’s influence. Teofimo Lopez praised Garcia’s growing role in modern boxing, particularly his ability to connect with fans and expand the sport’s reach. “He’s helping the sport evolve,” Lopez said. “Whoever faces him is going to gain that access.”

Garcia’s combination of skill and star power has made him one of boxing’s biggest draws adding even more value to a potential rematch.

Haney’s Dream Card

Beyond his own fight, Haney also laid out a blockbuster “dream card” featuring elite matchups across divisions:

  • Naoya Inoue vs. Jesse Rodriguez
  • Dmitry Bivol vs. David Benavidez
  • Canelo Alvarez vs. Hamzah Sheeraz

But even among those marquee fights, one stands above the rest.

A rematch between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia isn’t just about settling a score.

It’s about:

  • Redemption
  • Legacy
  • And unifying the welterweight division

With both fighters at their peak and with unfinished business still lingering the stage is set for one of boxing’s biggest events. Haney wants it. Garcia benefits from it. And boxing needs it.

This article first appeared on Dice City Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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