Whose name pops up when you hear the name Devin Haney? Ain’t it Ryan Garcia? The boxing fans are well aware of the fact that these two names have been inseparable since last year. Despite the calendar turning to a new year, their connection remains strong in the public eye. A prime example of this was seen during the recent Ring Magazine Awards event held in London on Saturday. The event, orchestrated by His Excellency Turki Alalshikh, who bought the Ring Magazine from Oscar De La Hoya last year, brought together the who’s who of boxing.

At the event, Ryan Garcia also made an appearance. As he walked down the red carpet, he was approached by Radio Raheem from Seconds out for an interview. It was here that KingRy was asked about the possibility of a rematch with Devin Haney, and the conversation soured quickly. Let’s take a closer look at what was said and the latest developments in this boxing saga.

Devin Haney’s father responds to Garcia’s refusal to VADA testing

During the interview with Radio Raheem, Garcia made his position clear. But, before proceeding further, one must remember that Devin Haney, the former undisputed lightweight champion has recently decided to fully commit himself to year-round random drug testing through the Voluntary Anti-Doping Association (VADA) new program.

When asked about Devin Haney’s demand for 24-hour drug testing, Garcia replied, “I’ll put my predicaments on it. We won’t be using VADA.” He went on to express his skepticism toward the organization, stating, “I’ll be using the people I want to use. Because for some reason Bill Haney keeps on saying VADA, VADA, VADA, VADA, VADA. It’s kind of strange to me, you know. Why can’t I use USADA or any other organization? Seems a little fishy to me.” He went on to claim that the organization’s alleged connection to Devin Haney was “weird”. He implied it had a “conflict of interest” and that it was “too entangled.”

The accusations from Garcia found a way to Devin Haney’s father when a fan responded to a post by Bill Haney reiterating Ryan Garcia’s point. “WE KNOW WHY YOU WANT VADA 🤡,” commented the fan. Responding to both the fan and Garcia’s assertions, Haney Sr hit out: “Because the WBC been using VADA since 2016 🤷🏽‍♂️.”

For boxing fans, this statement clarifies why Ryan Garcia cannot simply opt for another testing organization if he wants a chance at fighting for a WBC title. Nevertheless, his quarrel with the organization remains.

In the interview, Garcia stated his frustrations. “I tested negative all the way through and suddenly I’m positive, like, after I beat him,” he lamented to Rahim. To Garcia, the entire situation has been “absurd” and “weird,” leading him to swear off VADA altogether. However, as Bill Haney pointed out, if Garcia wants to compete for a WBC title, he must adhere to the governing body’s testing protocols, which include VADA.

Regardless, a new name popped up during the conversation, redirecting the situation to a whole different angle. Whose name is it? Let’s find out,

Ryan Garcia eyeing another fight

Amidst the controversy, Ryan Garcia addressed the possibility of fighting another top boxer: the current WBO Super Lightweight Champion, Teofimo Lopez. “It’s looking like I’m gonna fight Teofimo Lopez, so that’s good. You know, I’ve seen him today. It’s a little strange. But other than that, ready to whup his a**.” Garcia went on to express his readiness to fight the Brooklyn native, despite the “strange” encounter with the boxer earlier that day.

Lopez, who fights in the super lightweight division, has had a somewhat underwhelming 2024 after his victory over Sandor Martin and Josh Taylor. Since then, he has garnered a couple of unimpressive wins in 2024, including unanimous decisions over Jamaine Ortiz, and Steve Claggett.

With a record of 21-1, 13 KOs, Lopez has been criticized for a lack of excitement in his bouts, but a fight with Ryan Garcia would likely offer a fresh and explosive match-up. Whether it’s Devin Haney or Teofimo Lopez, Garcia seems ready to prove himself once again in the ring.

That being said, what do you think? How will Devin Haney respond to Garcia’s refusal of VADA testing? And, how do you think a fight between Ryan Garcia and Teofimo Lopez would unfold? Do share your thoughts below.