It’s been a very trying past year and change for Devin Haney. Once at the top of his weight class and a world champion, Haney’s downfall started when Ryan Garcia dominated him on April 20, 2024. Ultimately, we found out Garcia shouldn’t have been able to fight that night, but the damage was done.
Then came the lawsuits. And then came Haney’s first fight since the Garcia debacle. Haney beat Jose Ramirez by unanimous decision in May, but his performance left a lot to be desired. It has led to some fans saying his best days might be behind him. With many eyes on what Haney will do next, he appears to have called his shot, as he recently pleaded Richardson Hitchins to move up in weight to face him.
This contradicts promoter Eddie Hearn, who said that Haney could try to capture one of the two titles Jaron “Boots” Ennis is set to vacate. That would mean fighting Shakhram Giyasov or the winner of Lewis Crocker vs. Paddy Donovan. Haney doesn’t seem to want to entertain those options, but he may have no choice after Saturday night’s fight between Hitchins and George Kambosos Jr.
Richardson Hitchins defeats George Kambosos Jr. for the IBF super lightweight title
The problem for Haney? Teofimo Lopez might have dibs on Hitchins. Following his win over Kambosos, Hitchins was seen alongside Lopez in the ring. Hitchins tried to set up a future fight: “Me and Teofimo next“.
Lopez didn’t look entirely thrilled, so it may still be a longshot, but it makes sense considering where the two are at in their careers. Lopez holds the WBO super lightweight title, so a fight against Hitchins would unify that belt with the IBF title.
Lopez might be eyeing a bigger fish to fry, though. Currently in his prime, he may only get one or two more chances at a truly big fight. Hitchins is obviously a great boxer, but he doesn’t have the fanfare or mass appeal as some others. What is for sure is that the division is heating up.
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