A ‘Dream’ Realized: Devin Haney Proved a Point With His Win Over Kambosos

At the young age of 23, Devin Haney is currently the universally recognized, undisputed lightweight champion. Following his massive victory over George Kambosos Jr. on June 5, he now propels a plethora of discussions concerning his future in the sport. Now 7 years in professional boxing, Haney first had his hand on a belt in 2017 as he fought Maximino Toala for the vacant WBC Youth World Light title.

Prior to fighting Toala, he matched up against thirteen contenders since his professional debut.

He made his professional debut in 2015 against a boxer named Gonzalo Lopez Rodriguez. Then he fought the likes of Jose Iniguez, Jorge Sillas Amor, Carlos Antonio Avila, and Odilon Rivera Meza for over a year down the lane.

There is a two-fold purpose in mentioning these names. One, to say, that little information is available about these individuals today in boxing, and two, to specify that they appeared to fight Haney with more losses than wins highlighting their respective records.

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Therefore, one now encounters two sensitive questions: When exactly did Haney find himself under a significant test? And did Kambosos Jr. bring that good of a fight?

When did Devin Haney find himself under a true test?

Although each fight is important and merits equal devotion, the first battle that put Devin Haney‘s boxing IQ under a test was the one against Mario Enrique Tinoco. Tinoco arrived with a record of 16 wins, 4 losses, and 3 draws. He fought aggressively and with experience. As a result, the bout went the whole distance, and Haney, instead of a knockout, won by a decision.

Following the Tinoco event, the other fights that found Haney under a test include Mason Menard, Juan Carlos Burgos, and the last four matches prior to George Kambosos Jr. Kambosos Jr. was the fifth opponent who fought Haney with an unbeaten professional record. However, that ‘Ferocious’ came with a win over Teofimo Lopez added weight to the Haney vs Kambosos Jr. fight.

Was Kambosos Jr. the fight to determine Haney’s fighting capabilities?

Well, honestly speaking, the fact that sparked interest in the bout was Kambosos Jr’s victory over Lopez. Kambosos Jr demonstrated quite a commendable IQ and spirit in the Lopez fight. But against Haney, he miserably failed to impress the audience. Kambosos fought with his guards down and kept his head low. In addition, he barely used his jabs and height advantage as opposed to Haney.

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Albeit, Haney fought with patience and avoided unnecessary risks. He, in fact, showed some beautiful skills. Given how Kambosos Jr. approached the fight, with much conviction, one can say that ‘Ferocious’ was not the ultimate event. Devin Haney certainly proved he has skills, but he will also need to be seen against some other likes – maybe a Lomachenko or a Davis.