Since being elevated to world champion in 2019, Devin Haney’s lightweight reign has been met with a chorus of boos and inquisitive looks.
Of course, just a few months prior to his elevation, Haney was hopeful that winning the WBC interim crown would be enough to force Vasiliy Lomachenko, who then held three of the four major world titles, into a showdown. But, with the Ukrainian opting to go in another direction, Haney’s championship run has always been littered with question marks.
Ultimately, with a handful of title defenses underneath his belt against notable names, the 24-year-old was given a golden opportunity. George Kambosos Jr., a newly crowned unified champion fresh off his upset win over Teofimo Lopez, allowed Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) to challenge him for undisputed glory. Though the Australian was confident, Haney would go on to easily outbox his man on two separate occasions, leading to consecutive victories.
Those triumphs, while good on paper, haven’t exactly quieted the noise. With the likes of Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis making waves of their own, Haney is fully aware that his placement as the division’s best isn’t a definitive one. However, with the Las Vegas native set to take on Lomachenko this upcoming weekend, he’s hopeful that a win come Saturday night will force his doubters to eat their words.
“I think it’s definitely up for debate if I’m the guy in the weight class,” said Haney to Andre Ward during a recent interview. “If I’m the man. Did I just beat a guy who got lucky and upset Teo? That’s why this fight is so important to me. Now, I get a chance to really prove that no, I’m that guy.”
Lomachenko, now 35, once held a prominent spot atop virtually every pound-for-pound list. But, following an upset loss at the hands of Lopez, coupled with what could be deteriorating skills, many are convinced that his best days are behind him.
Still, despite those storylines, the Ukrainian has reeled off three consecutive victories, the latest coming at the expense of Jamaine Ortiz.
Considering his awe-inspiring background and his current lofty standings, Haney is under the belief that having his hand raised in victory will do wonders for his career.
“It does everything. It solidifies me.”