Devin Haney, currently undefeated and a former two-division world champion, is at a pivotal junction in his boxing career. Recently, during a workout session in London with trainer Tunde Ajayi, Haney’s performance raised eyebrows. Observers noted a conspicuous decline in his speed and punch power, attributes that had defined his success in the ring. After a nine-month hiatus from competitive boxing, many hoped for a rejuvenated Haney, yet his lackluster workout left questions about his readiness as he prepares for future bouts.
The long layoff undoubtedly affects fighters, but what is particularly troubling for Haney is the lingering impact of his last significant fight against Ryan Garcia. Their showdown on April 20 at the Barclays Center became a sobering experience for Haney. Although officially ruled a no-contest, the physical toll taken during that bout appears to have robbed him of some of his previous athleticism. It’s often said that a fighter doesn’t come back the same post-defeat, and that adage may ring true for Haney, as signs of fatigue and diminished power suggest he may still be feeling the scars of that encounter.
Haney’s comments during his media availability indicate a strategic yet cautious approach moving forward. Notably, he confirmed that he will not immediately face Garcia again, suggesting a preference to rebuild rather than rush into a challenging rematch. His willingness to consider fights at catchweight—possibly at 143 or 144 pounds—reveals a desire to strategically position himself against less powerful opponents, ensuring he maintains a safety net as he navigates his return to the ring.
The prospect of facing a lighter puncher reflects Haney’s careful consideration of his current physical condition and the lingering effects of previous injuries or damage sustained in matches. This approach is prudent; risking a fight against a powerful contender may not be wise at this juncture of his career. The potential to fight at 140 pounds for the right opponent exemplifies Haney’s adaptable mindset while trying to recover his reputation as a dominant force in the sport.
Moreover, in pursuit of competitive yet lucrative opportunities, Haney’s discussions with Turki Al-Shiekh about potentially fighting on his promotional cards add another layer of strategy to his comeback. Not only is Haney seeking financial security post-recovery, but he also looks to secure a fight where he can showcase his regained skills without facing overwhelming adversity. Turki’s inclination toward ensuring competitive bouts, combined with his willingness to present mismatches, opens a potentially advantageous avenue for Haney’s next fight.
Ultimately, while Haney may still be carrying the psychological weight of his last outing, his approach to upcoming matchups signifies a conscious effort to remain competitive without jeopardizing his future. By taking measured steps to rebuild and refocus, he aims to prove that a fighter can indeed rise from adversity, including the scars that accompany challenging bouts. As he plots out a path towards a potential rematch with Garcia in 2025, fans will keenly watch to see if Haney can reclaim his footing in the boxing world.