Devin Haney’s next bout on March 25th, set to be aired on BLK Prime, has stirred mixed reactions among boxing fans and analysts alike. While the announcement from the streaming platform aims to generate buzz, many believe that this is a misstep in Haney’s career trajectory. Major broadcasting networks like DAZN or ESPN typically receive higher viewership, leading to better marketability for fighters. This shift to a lesser-known platform could significantly limit Haney’s exposure and accessibility to a broader audience, raising concerns about his career’s direction in a sport that values visibility.
Haney’s career has faced turbulence since his contentious majority decision loss to Ryan Garcia last year. Following this setback, Haney’s decision to pursue a lawsuit against Garcia was viewed by many as a desperate attempt to regain status, resulting in negative public sentiment. Fans generally perceived this action as an admission of weakness, fueling skepticism about Haney’s ability to come back strong after a significant defeat. This unfathomable trend in his career is not only a burden on Haney but also raises questions about the decision-making surrounding his professional path.
One of the most pressing inquiries in the aftermath of this announcement is whether it was Bill Haney—Devin’s father and trainer—who orchestrated this move to BLK Prime. If so, it invites speculation about the rationale behind such a choice. Why would a well-respected boxing figure place his son behind a paywall that risks shrinking his audience? Without a compelling opponent, moving to an obscure platform resonates as a disconcerting strategy. The boxing world is unforgiving, and isolating oneself from potential fans may prove detrimental to a fighter’s legacy.
Another appreciable issue is Haney’s inactivity in the ring following the Garcia fight. Unlike many of his contemporaries who bounce back quickly, Haney has remained dormant, missing crucial opportunities for redemption and growth. This calculated risk of waiting for a potential rematch with Garcia could further complicate his career trajectory if he suffers another loss or faces a lackluster opponent, which is likely given BLK Prime’s current standing in the boxing landscape.
The details of Haney’s opponent remain unconfirmed, yet it’s evident that he is unlikely to face someone deemed a genuine contender. Should he falter before a highly anticipated rematch with Garcia, it could not only dampen Haney’s marketability but also lead to critical harm to his reputation. Despite previous successful pay-per-view events, such as Terence Crawford’s fight on BLK Prime, the concern remains that numbers will dwindle unless a marquee name is brought into the equation.
While the move to BLK Prime may serve some strategic purposes, the potential drawbacks—namely diminished visibility, inactivity, and a questionable opponent choice—could ultimately stymie Devin Haney’s career in a sport defined by high stakes and intense competition. The boxing community awaits this bout with a mix of anticipation and skepticism, eager to see whether Haney can turn the tide or if he will further alienate himself from his fanbase.