In a recent interview with DAZN Boxing, Devin Haney, the WBA light-welterweight champion, made an interesting statement regarding his mindset towards his boxing career. He revealed that his focus is now on making money rather than pursuing a legacy or collecting belts. Haney, with an impressive record of 31 wins and 15 knockouts, believes he has already accomplished enough in terms of capturing titles in the lightweight and super-lightweight divisions.
While some fans may criticize Haney for being opportunistic and strategically selecting weaker champions to conquer, such as George Kambosos Jr. and Regis Prograis, while avoiding tougher opponents like Gervonta Davis, Shakur Stevenson, and Subriel Matias, Haney remains unapologetic. He rehydrates to a staggering 165 pounds, clearly taking advantage of his smaller opponents in the 140-pound weight class, exhibiting a Vulturistic strategy.
The upcoming fight against Ryan Garcia on April 20th is seen as Haney's first 'money fight.' Haney ambitiously aims to create a significant financial impact before retiring from the sport. He acknowledges that this fight with Garcia, who has a massive online following of over 11 million fans, has the potential to be a mega event. The large viewership and subsequent pay-per-view buys from Garcia's fan base present a lucrative opportunity for Haney to capitalize on.
What sets Haney apart from some fighters is his transparency regarding his motives. Rather than pretending to fight for sport or the pursuit of a true legacy by facing the best opponents, Haney openly admits his desire for financial success. It's refreshing to see a boxer like Haney prioritize economic gains and acknowledge the business aspect of professional boxing. He understands that facing Garcia will not only generate substantial revenue but also elevate his status within the industry.
In an intriguing prediction, Haney even speculates that Garcia's father may be the one to throw in the towel during their fight, potentially saving his son from further punishment. This statement adds an additional layer of drama to the already highly anticipated match.
While Haney's new money mindset may not resonate with fans seeking a fighter who is solely driven by achieving greatness in the ring, it is important to appreciate his honesty and straightforwardness. Ultimately, Haney aims to secure his future by maximizing his earnings during his time in the sport. The fight against Ryan Garcia promises to be an exciting spectacle, drawing attention not only from boxing enthusiasts but also from those interested in witnessing the clash of two young, talented athletes.
Devin Haney’s decision to chase big paydays and prioritize financial gains over legacy and belt collection may be unconventional, but it offers a refreshing perspective on the business side of professional boxing. With his upcoming fight against Ryan Garcia on the horizon, all eyes will be on these two promising fighters, eagerly anticipating the outcome of their clash and the impact it will have on their respective careers.
