Why Devin Haney Will Come Back Better

Devin Haney has promised to come back stronger when he faces Jose Ramirez in his next fight on May 2, as we look to see if he will come back stronger. 

Haney is making his first appearance since his no-contest against Ryan Garcia last April. He hit the canvas three times as Garcia secured a majority decision victory. Haney was heavily criticized for his performance as his defense was exposed. Garcia landed the left hook on numerous occasions, at a time when Haney essentially referred to him as a one-trick pony. 

However, Garcia failed VADA tests for Ostarine, as Haney’s undefeated record was reinstated. He took a significant amount of time out of the sport as he makes his return on May 2. Haney will fight at welterweight for the first time as we look at how he can reestablish himself in the world of boxing.

Haney’s Struggles

Haney will be boxing at welterweight in his first bout. He no longer needs to lose a large amount of weight. He was drained during his time at 135 pounds when he was the former Undisputed Lightweight Champion. The same could arguably be said at 140. Haney did look drained for the Garcia weigh-in, as he rehydrated to around 160 pounds. That shows that Haney’s walking around weight is more than middleweight. Haney also has the opportunity to establish himself in a new division.

He is a two-weight world champion, having won titles at 135 and 140 pounds. The welterweight division is not as stocked as it used to be. Jaron Ennis may be considered the best in the division, having unified by beating Eimantas Stanionis in his last fight. However, the two other champions in the division are questionable. 

Mario Barrios, who is the WBC Welterweight Champion, has suffered defeats to Gervonta Davis and Keith Thurman. Meanwhile, Brian Norman Jr., who holds the WBO Welterweight Title, has arguably not faced an elite welterweight.

Haney’s Aim

Haney also has plenty of critics to prove wrong. Reports indicate that if he wins against Ramirez, he will likely rematch Garcia. Garcia headlines the card that Haney is fighting on as he faces Rolando Romero. A Haney win over Garcia would remove any doubts about the first fight. Haney’s camp has gone with the narrative that the Ostarine in Garcia’s system did not make it an even playing field. There is a strong case we will see a better Devin.

“Now, I have another test in front of me. It’s Jose Ramirez. So, my main focus is going in there, being me, and being victorious. By the time the fight comes, it’ll be a year that I’ve been out of the ring. It’ll be the longest layoff of my career. Probably ever, I’ll probably never have a layoff this long. So, I’m anxious and excited to get back and showcase my skills. “It don’t matter how ready I am because on May 2nd, you’re going to see. I can say I’m ready more than ever, or not. It don’t matter. May 2nd, the world is going to see,” Haney said