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Debate

Is Floyd Mayweather's involvement in Ryan Garcia's career a blessing or a curse for the young boxer?

Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney have nothing in common. Both of them had different careers and fighting styles, and their rise to the top was also different. But one thing that ties them together is their relationship with Floyd Mayweather and how ‘Money’ shaped their career indirectly over the years. The relationship between Garcia and Mayweather is not that old but the California resident likes to think of Mayweather as a ‘Mentor.’

On the other hand, Haney and Mayweather share a long history. ‘The Dream’ has been connected to him since his teenage years and was also mentored by Floyd in his younger years. Haney was even trained by Floyd Mayweather Sr. However, things started to deteriorate when Garcia, claiming Floyd had given it to him, uploaded footage of a young Haney sparring with a young Gervonta Davis at the Mayweather Gym. Since then, there has been nothing but animosity between these two, which eventually spilled into their fight promotions.

On the day of the weigh-ins, Garcia failed to meet the 140 lb weight limit and had to compensate Devin Haney for allowing the fight to proceed despite the weight difference. Haney, however, made weight without any issues. After Garcia initially won (though the result was later changed to a no-contest), the situation escalated when Ryan revealed that Mayweather had advised him to come in “over 3 lbs” heavier. Now, five months after the fight, Haney reflects on the event and has finally spoken out about Mayweather’s supposed involvement in the entire fiasco.

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The devil is in the details

In a sit-down interview with undefeated world champion Andre Ward, Devin Haney looked back at the fight and discussed the potential involvement of Floyd Mayweather in the Ryan Garcia weight debacle. Ward was just as curious as everyone to know Haney’s thought as he asked, “Did Floyd tell him not to make the weight?” in an earnest tone.

Haney was shocked that his former mentor could do such a thing and was still unsure about the facts, as he simply replied, “I don’t know.” However, soon after he added, “Floyd said he didn’t. That’s what he said. That’s his word.”

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Is Floyd Mayweather's involvement in Ryan Garcia's career a blessing or a curse for the young boxer?

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Andre Ward was quick to comment on the Facetime screenshot of Garcia and Mayweather, saying, “I mean, I’ve seen him throw… (3 pounds sign).” Haney, once again, struggled to find the right words, simply responding in a tired tone, “I’ve seen him too.” It must be difficult for him to witness his former mentor engaging in such tactics against him.

Devin Haney vs. Floyd Mayweather

The intense rivalry between this mentor and his former protégé has been nothing short of bitter. Haney labeled the 50-0 boxer a “hater” after Ryan Garcia posted a sparring video of Haney and ‘Tank.’ Not long after Garcia’s fight, Haney Sr. and Mayweather clashed in a heated online exchange.

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The argument quickly turned personal, with Haney Sr. accusing Mayweather of being a hater and claiming that the sparring session between Mayweather and his son was one-sided, with Haney dominating. In response, Mayweather denied the accusations of hate, insisting that he has supported “The Dream” on several occasions and will continue to do so.

Following the controversy, the rivalry seems to be cooling down somewhat. Both sides have shown more maturity in interviews, steering clear of provocative statements aimed at stirring attention. What are your thoughts on Floyd Mayweather’s involvement in the Ryan Garcia vs. Devin Haney saga? Share your opinion below!

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