Devin Haney’s First Loss: A Night of Challenges and Lessons Learned
In a recent episode of ProBox TV’s “Deep Waters,” former world champions Chris Alvarez and Paulie Malignaggi analyzed Devin Haney’s first professional defeat at the age of 25. The former undisputed lightweight champion faced a tough challenge against his underdog rival, Ryan Garcia, in a WBC 140-pound title fight.
Haney, known for his impressive jab and boxing acumen, was unable to maintain his game plan against the hard-hitting Garcia. “He jabbed really well, and then when he got hurt again [by a seventh-round knockdown], it just went out the window,” Algieri observed. “He was squaring up, chasing the puncher. Two things you don’t do: hook with a hooker – and that’s exactly what Devin did throughout – and you don’t chase a puncher.”
Malignaggi was also critical of Haney’s performance, noting that he was rocked by Garcia’s power shots in the first round and struggled to recover from the damage in the seventh round, despite his earlier dominance with the jab and movement.
“That fight should have never picked up the pace. Haney should have deadened that fight with that jab and won a quiet fight,” Malignaggi said. “That’s what you’ve got to do.” Algieri agreed, stating that Garcia “looked totally gassed, almost looked like an old fighter,” in the early rounds before finding his rhythm and power.
The experts also pointed out Haney’s unconventional pre-fight preparation, with Algieri expressing concern over Haney’s decision to practice leaping left hooks, which played into Garcia’s strengths.
Malignaggi noted that this loss may have shown Haney’s limitations, as he is not the next Floyd Mayweather. “His chin is suspect. He’s not a puncher. [Against Garcia], you’ve got to be clever. This is where you show who you really are,” Malignaggi said.
Despite the setback, the former champions believe Haney can bounce back and regain his champion status. Malignaggi encouraged Haney, saying, “You can be back and you will be back if you believe in yourself. I believe he still can be a [victorious] champion. He’s got to believe in himself after that beating.”
This loss presents an opportunity for Haney to regroup, reassess his approach, and come back stronger in the competitive lightweight division.
🔗 Source
