![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1177428975.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Devin Haney trains during the Devin Haney Media Workout at Rathbone Boxing Club on September 27, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
![](https://image-cdn.essentiallysports.com/wp-content/uploads/GettyImages-1177428975.jpg?width=600)
via Getty
LONDON, ENGLAND – SEPTEMBER 27: Devin Haney trains during the Devin Haney Media Workout at Rathbone Boxing Club on September 27, 2019 in London, England. (Photo by Jack Thomas/Getty Images)
Devin Haney has blazed a successful trail in the lightweight class. His much-awaited matchup with the strong and aggressive WBC super lightweight champion Regis Prograis has promised to be a battle of explosive strength and technical proficiency. Beating Prograis will solidify his place as one of the best to ever take up the gloves in the division. As the fight day dawns closer, the fans get more and more excited. Recently in an interview with prominent journalist Stephen A. Smith, Haney talked about his match against Prograis.
The lightweight had already captured all belts at 135lbs and had very few possible fights left. Now with his debut at 140lbs almost here, the former undisputed champ of the lightweight division sat down with Stephen A. Smith to reflect upon his reasons for moving to super lightweight, especially with opponents like Shakur Stevenson and Gervonta Davis still available to him.
Devin Haney Talks About the Changes That Forced Him to Go Up
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
On being asked why he was moving up to 140lbs against Prograis when many big names were still undefeated at 135, Haney replied, “I mean Shakur could have been my last fight at 135. I sent him an offer to make the fight happen. He turned it down.” Haney mentioned how Stevenson turning down the fight paved the way for Haney vs. Prograis.
The Dream went on to add, “My body has matured. I’ve been at 135 for 30 fights now. It’s unheard of. I did everything at 135. Undisputed. Defended it twice. Now, it’s time to move up to 140 and come in as a Challenger and become a champion at 140 once again.”
He radiates confidence going into his fight against Prograis. Whether he can reach for the belts at 140lbs or not, only time will tell. Haney will have to give his best in this new weight class. Once he’s done with it, Haney may still have a few surprises lined up for him. If he chooses to go for it is an entirely different question.
Does Sean O’Malley want a fight with Devin Haney?
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Bantamweight champion Sean O’Malley has disclosed discussions with the UFC about a potential shift to professional boxing, with rumored matchups against Haney and Gervonta Davis. Expressing interest in headlining his own show, O’Malley mentioned the possibility of UFC 300 in April but acknowledged it might not feature him as the main event.
He revealed conversations with the UFC about future boxing endeavors, indicating the promotion’s skepticism, citing low recognition for Haney. “No one knows Devin Haney. There’s zero percent chance that ever happens,” said O’Malley. The fighter emphasized that according to the UFC, Haney lacks star power, and a bout with him is deemed unlikely. Despite links to Gervonta Davis, O’Malley highlighted the challenge of gauging public recognition between the two boxers.
ADVERTISEMENT
Article continues below this ad
Do you think it was a good decision for Haney to change the division? What are your views on the topic? Tell us in the comments below.
Watch This Story: Devin Haney Fires Shots At Shakur Stevenson After Edwin De Los Santos Disappointing Win