Ryan Garcia silenced doubters with a stunning display against Devin Haney, landing multiple knockdowns on his way to a majority decision victory. Garcia’s left hook proved to be his most potent weapon, sending Haney to the canvas three times throughout the bout.
Early in the fight, Garcia’s left hook buzzed Haney, though it didn’t result in a knockdown. Haney managed to recover and showcase his boxing skills, but Garcia’s power was undeniable. In the seventh round, Garcia landed another left hook that put Haney down for the first time in his career. However, Garcia’s eagerness cost him a point as he landed a punch on Haney during a clinch.
Despite Haney’s efforts to regain control of the fight, Garcia’s left hooks continued to find their mark, resulting in knockdowns in the 10th and 11th rounds. Garcia’s powerful punches allowed him to edge ahead on the scorecards, winning by scores of 112-112, 114-110, and 115-109. CBS Sports scored the fight 113-111 in favor of Garcia.
Leading up to the fight, Garcia’s unconventional behavior, including social media posts about conspiracy theories and missed weight, led many to doubt his focus. However, Garcia’s performance proved that he was more than ready for the challenge.
Although Garcia missed weight, he was not eligible to win Haney’s WBC junior welterweight championship. Despite this setback, both fighters have expressed interest in a rematch, with Garcia eyeing his first world title.
In other bouts on the undercard, Arnold Barboza Jr. narrowly defeated Sean McComb via split decision, while Bektemir Melikuziev claimed a technical decision over Pierre Dibombe due to a cut. David Jimenez also secured a unanimous decision victory to claim the WBA interim flyweight title.
Stay tuned for updates on a potential rematch between Garcia and Haney, as both fighters look to settle the score in the ring.
Credit: CBS Sport
