Devin Haney, the reigning lightweight champion, recently opened up about his return to boxing, the controversial Ryan Garcia exhibition, the rumored retirement of Gervonta Davis, and his upcoming plans for 2025. In an exclusive interview, Haney shared his thoughts on the state of boxing and what’s next for his career.
Reflecting on Time Away from the Ring
Haney discussed his time away from the ring, explaining how it has given him the chance to focus on personal growth and spend quality time with his family. “It’s been a while since I’ve been in the ring, but I’ve been able to learn a lot about myself, my team, and the sport of boxing,” Haney said. Despite the long break, the champion is eager to return to the squared circle and continue his pursuit of greatness.
Thoughts on Ryan Garcia’s Exhibition and Rematch
One of the most talked-about topics was Ryan Garcia’s recent exhibitions, which many fans criticized as less than serious. Haney didn’t hold back in his response. “That exhibition was BS,” he said bluntly. “I think Ryan should get back to real boxing, not exhibitions.” Haney also addressed the possibility of a rematch with Garcia, stating that while it might not happen immediately, he would be open to the fight in the future. “I’ll fight Ryan again, but not next. I’m focusing on bigger challenges first,” he added.
Gervonta Davis and the Retirement Rumors
Haney was also asked about the ongoing retirement rumors surrounding Gervonta “Tank” Davis. The rumors began to circulate after Davis made comments suggesting he was considering stepping away from boxing. Haney, however, remains unconvinced. “He’s not retiring,” Haney said confidently. “There’s too much money to be made, and too many big fights for Tank. He knows that himself.” Haney made it clear that he believes Davis still has a lot of unfinished business in the sport and will likely return to action soon.
Focused on Big Fights in 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, Haney emphasized his desire to fight the best in the sport. “I want to fight the top guys, the best in the world,” he said. Haney has always been one to challenge himself, and he doesn’t plan to take any easy fights. “I’m not into tune-ups or stay-busy fights. I want to fight the best and prove that I’m the best,” Haney declared.
On the Potential of a Fight with Shakur Stevenson
The topic of a potential fight with Shakur Stevenson also came up. Haney acknowledged that the fight would be one of the biggest in the division and that fans should expect it to happen sooner rather than later. “That’s a fight that’s going to happen at some point,” Haney said. “We’re both on a collision course, and when it happens, it’s going to be a big deal.” Haney didn’t shy away from expressing his confidence in his abilities, saying, “I believe I’m the best in the lightweight division, and I’ll prove it when we step in the ring.”
Boxing Politics and Moving Forward
As Haney looks ahead to the future, he expressed frustration with the politics that often hinder big fights from happening. “Boxing can be hard because of all the politics,” he said. “You’ve got this promoter, that promoter, and it makes things difficult. But at the end of the day, the best should be fighting the best, and that’s what I’m trying to do.”
Haney’s Future Plans: No Tune-Up Fights
Haney made it clear that he has no interest in “tune-up” fights or staying inactive for too long. “I want to make the big fights happen. Whether it’s Teofimo Lopez, Gervonta Davis, or whoever else, I’m ready,” Haney said. “The goal is to continue to challenge myself and fight the best to solidify my place as one of the best of all time.”
Conclusion: A Champion’s Determination
Devin Haney’s passion for boxing and his determination to be remembered as one of the greatest is clear. With his eyes firmly set on the top of the lightweight division, Haney is eager to return to the ring and take on the best in the world. His thoughts on Ryan Garcia, Gervonta Davis, and future matchups show that he’s ready for the challenges that lie ahead in 2025.
