Devin Haney recently experienced what seemed like a victory with the New York State Athletic Commission overturning his loss to Ryan Garcia and declaring their fight a no-contest. This decision restored Haney’s pristine 31-0 record, a milestone he highly values. However, despite this reversal, Haney’s victory feels hollow as the boxing public still views his initial defeat as a legitimate loss. Moreover, the one-year ban imposed on Garcia means that Haney will miss out on a lucrative rematch, denying him of a potentially massive payday. The financial implications of this situation are significant for Haney, as no other opponents can offer him the same financial reward that a second fight with Garcia would have provided.
One-Year Inactivity and Title Relinquishment
In response to Garcia’s ban and the absence of a rematch opportunity, Haney has announced that he will remain inactive for a year. This decision raises questions about his future plans and the reasons behind this extended break from the sport. Additionally, Haney has chosen to surrender his WBA 140-pound title rather than defend it against his mandatory challenger, Sandor Martin. This move signifies a shift in Haney’s priorities and raises doubts about his commitment to maintaining his status as a champion in the boxing world.
Garcia’s Short Ban and Potential International Fights
Despite facing a one-year ban from the New York Commission, Ryan Garcia could have potentially received a harsher punishment. The relatively short ban raises speculation about its start date and the possibility of Garcia pursuing fights abroad during this period of inactivity. Countries outside the U.S, such as Saudi Arabia or Abu Dhabi, may present opportunities for Garcia to continue his career and earn a living without the constraints imposed by sanctioning bodies and commissions in the United States. This willingness to seek fights overseas demonstrates Garcia’s focus on financial gain rather than pursuing world titles and recognition from traditional boxing authorities.
The fallout from Ryan Garcia’s ban has had a profound impact on Devin Haney’s career trajectory and financial prospects. While Haney’s loss was officially reversed, the absence of a rematch with Garcia has left him in a precarious position in terms of securing significant earnings and maintaining his standing in the boxing world. On the other hand, Garcia’s ability to explore international opportunities despite the ban showcases a different approach to navigating the complex landscape of professional boxing. As these developments unfold, both fighters will need to carefully consider their next steps to ensure continued success and relevance in the competitive world of boxing.