Is Devin Haney The Best Welterweight?

Devin Haney is the best welterweight according to The Ring’s latest rankings, which has drawn a reaction amongst fans. 

The rankings emerged after Haney became a three-weight world champion after beating Brian Norman Jr. for the WBO Welterweight Title. The result extended Haney’s undefeated record to 33-0. The victory was impressive given the fact Haney defied the pre-fight narrative. There was a perception he would struggle against a power puncher, much like he did against Ryan Garcia. Not only that, but it was Haney’s first fight at 147 against Norman Jr. who had already established himself in the division. And yet, Haney dropped his man in the second round, while outboxing him during the first half of the bout. 

However, the rapid rise to the top of The Ring’s rankings has been met with criticism. Haney’s claim to the top spot is premature because he has had only one official fight at the welterweight limit; his preceding bout against Jose Ramirez was fought at a 144-pound catchweight. The Norman Jr. win also had low punch statistics. Haney landed a mere 70 total punches over 12 rounds. 

Current Rankings

1 Devin Haney

2 Brian Norman Jr.

3 Eimantas Stanionis

4 Giovani Santillan

5 Rohan Polanco

6 Shakhram Giyasov

7 Alexis Rocha

8 Raul Curiel

9 Jack Catterall

10 Mario Barrios

The Reality

The most compelling justification is that Haney defeated the fighter who The Ring itself had previously ranked as the top welterweight contender. By moving up and immediately challenging and soundly defeating the fighter considered the top dog in the division, Haney effectively cleared the top step of the welterweight ladder. This single victory fulfills the typical requirement in The Ring’s system: you beat the best fighter available to you.

Haney’s placement is also justified by his historical performance. Prior to welterweight, Haney was the undisputed lightweight champion and a champion at super lightweight, proving his ability to successfully navigate weight classes. Haney landed 26 percent of his total punches, compared to Norman Jr.’s 15 percent and he successfully neutralized a dangerous threat while showing improved punch resistance after the Ryan Garcia fight.