By: Sean Crose
Devin Haney took to Instagram Wednesday to declare that he wants another fight with Ryan Garcia — just under different circumstances than the ones he found himself in last Saturday night at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn . Because, despite being heavily favored going in, Haney was ultimately defeated by Garcia in their round 12 match. “First of all,” Haney said, “I want to say.. Alhamdulillah Allah is the perfect planner and I trust his plans no matter what. I excelled at this sport of boxing, and if anyone knew me they knew that I was a true competitor and always wanted to test my skills against the best fighters in the world.
The WBC junior welterweight champion then went on to acknowledge his ring conqueror. “Ryan, despite the circumstances, won that night and that’s okay,” Haney said. “I do feel like weight plays a role in it but God only knows. I would love to run again and give the fans a FAIR fight within the agreed range.” Here Haney is referring to Garcia being three pounds heavier than the welterweight limit last weekend. That’s why Haney was able to retain his title despite being dropped three times on his way to being defeated by California’s Garcia.
“With that said,” Haney added, “I am currently enjoying time with family and friends and enjoying my Ramadan days. Thank you to all my supporters and everyone who participated in making this event possible. After finishing my Ramadan days, I will tell you what happens next! After thanking those who “reached out” to him, Haney went on to graciously thank those who made last weekend’s fight possible – including Garcia’s promoter, Oscar De La Hoya.
“Thank you Oscar & Golden Boy,” he said, “Eddie Hearn and all of Matchroom.. DAZN.. Mauricio & WBC.. and all DHP great boxing night Alhamdulillah.” For his part, De La Hoya was in no mood to play nice. “Good luck with Eddie (promoter Eddie Hearn) De La Hoya said, before adding that “there will be no rematch.” De La Hoya complacently concluded by telling Haney: “Good luck in your career and good luck with Eddie, a European promoter trying to make it in America.”
Garcia’s strange behavior leading up to last weekend’s fight, coupled with the fact that he didn’t seem to even be trying to make weight seriously, left many – perhaps most – feeling that it would be the Haney’s fight on Saturday night. It didn’t work out that way at all, as Garcia was able to consistently land his powerful punches.
