In a highly anticipated showdown that has the boxing world buzzing, Devin Haney is set to defend his junior welterweight championship against Ryan Garcia on April 20 in Las Vegas. This bout, confirmed by sources close to ESPN, marks Haney’s third consecutive pay-per-view appearance and undoubtedly his most significant challenge to date. At just 25, Haney has already established himself as a formidable force within the sport, currently ranked as ESPN’s No. 6 pound-for-pound boxer and the 2023 runner-up for fighter of the year.
Devin Haney on how he expects to beat Ryan Garcia: “We've seen Ryan quit before and I think this won't be anything different. Once you have that quit in you, it's installed in you, you know how to do it. I think he'll quit on April 20th.” [@DAZNBoxing]
His impressive track record includes a memorable victory over the legendary Vasiliy Lomachenko and a dominant win against Regis Prograis, making him a two-division champion and setting the stage for his first title defense at 140 pounds.
On the other side of the ring, Ryan Garcia brings his own set of impressive credentials, highlighted by his lightning-fast hand speed and a powerful punch that has led him to a 24-1 record, with 20 of those wins coming by knockout. Garcia’s recent performance against Oscar Duarte, where he secured an eighth-round KO, showcased his readiness to compete at the 140-pound level.
Having already proven his box office appeal in a blockbuster fight against Gervonta Davis, which drew over 1 million PPV buys, Garcia is now poised for his first world title opportunity. With both fighters ranked in the top 10 by ESPN at 140 pounds — Haney at No. 1 and Garcia at No. 8 — this fight not only promises to be an electrifying clash of talent and skill but also a pivotal moment in their respective careers.
