Devin Haney mentions unfair weight disadvantages in first statement since defeat to Ryan Garcia
Devin Haney suffered his first career defeat on April 20 as he was outpointed over 12 rounds by fellow American Ryan Garcia in New York.
‘King Ry’ was firing on all cylinders last Saturday night, hurting the champion early on in the first round. However, Haney looked to find his rhythm as he boxed his way back to a comfortable lead entering the second half of the fight.
Unfortunately for the former undisputed lightweight star, his lead came crashing down in the seventh as he was dropped by a thunderous left hook.
Haney hit the canvas on two more occasions, seeing his lead slip away from him as underdog Garcia was awarded a majority decision.
25-year-old Haney still holds the WBC super-lightweight championship, however. The belt had been taken off the line after the challenger weighed in 3lbs over the 140lbs weight limit.
‘The Dream’ took to Instagram yesterday, sharing his thoughts for the first time since the shock upset in at the Barclays Center, Brooklyn.
“First off I wanna say… Alhamdulillah Allah is the perfect planner and I trust his plan no matter what. I came up short but this boxing, and if anyone knows me they know that I am a true competitor, and always wanted to test my skills against the best fighters in the world.
“Ryan, despite the circumstances, was victorious that night and that’s fine. I do feel like weight played a role in it but only Allah knows. I would love to run it back and give the fans a FAIR fight within an agreed weight.
“With that being said… I am currently enjoying time with my family and friends, as well as making up my days of Ramadan. Thank you to all my supporters & everyone involved in making this event happen. After I finish making up my days of Ramadan I will tell you guys what’s next!
“I appreciate everyone that has reached out I am overwhelmed with love! I will be back better then ever InshaAllah.
“Thank you Oscar & Golden Boy.. Eddie Hearn & all of Matchroom.. DAZN.. Mauricio & the WBC.. & all of DHP great night of boxing Alhamdulillah.”
If a rematch were to take place, it looks unlikely the WBC strap would be on the line as Garcia stated he has no interest in fighting at super-lightweight any longer, revealing that he doesn’t feel he can make the weight requirements.