Why Was Devin Haney Suspended Alongside Ryan Garcia by the New York State Athletic Commission?

The boxing world is now abuzz with the news of Ryan Garcia‘s suspension. It follows his reported failure to clear the drug tests for the Devin Haney fight. Though initially a majority decision win for the Californian, it will now be treated as a ‘no-contest’. The verdict includes punitive damages as well. Through an X/Twitter post, Garcia had already suggested moving ahead with retirement. Amidst the latest developments surrounding the doping scandal, a snippet of information is emerging. There’s a good chance it might raise a few eyebrows.

An overview of boxing record-keeper BoxRec‘s portal reveals that not only Ryan Garcia but Devin Haney have also been placed under indefinite suspension by the New York State Athletic Commission (NYSAC). This news might definitely leave a few scratching their heads. After all, Ryan Garcia’s suspension is understandable. But why Devin Haney? The former lightweight undisputed champion has also pointed to staying out of the ring for some time. There are hints that both boxers might circle back for a rematch once ‘KingRy’ has served the suspension. Let’s check out the reasons behind ‘The Dream’s shocking status.

Under the Radar: A surprising revelation in Devin Haney’s status

“Suspended by New York State Athletic Commission indefinitely,” reads the caption. It lords above Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia’s record and photograph. It appears that Devin Haney’s indefinite suspension has been in effect since April 20. The day when he suffered his first career loss (per the earlier decision) to Ryan Garcia.

In one of its episodes, YT boxing news channel ‘BOXINGEGO’ curiously featured a ‘BoxRec’ screenshot that showed that in Ryan Garcia’s case, the suspension was supposed to last until April 27. Of course, following the final judgment on his involvement with the doping controversy, it is also showing as “suspended by New York State Athletic Commission indefinitely.“

An article on ‘premierboxingvault’ specifies the primary reason why, in Devin Haney’s case, the authorities took such a measure. From the gist of it, it seems that the NYSAC went ahead with the decision to suspend ‘The Dream’ on account of medical reasons. Reportedly, the former lightweight undisputed champ, who went down three times in the Ryan Garcia fight, had suffered injuries.

Many fans might recall that there were talks that the fight should have been stopped instead of being allowed to go the distance. There is also a clip of Ryan Garcia checking with Devin Haney’s father and trainer, Bill Haney, to stop the fight. Given that suspension has been rounded up on medical grounds, fans can hope that it will be called off at the earliest.

The Dreamy Dilemma

Some followers may now be keenly watching how things proceed from here. Devin Haney messaged, “I’ll be back n one year.. I had all the belts already. From now on, I’m fighting at whatever weight I choose, no longer fighting n weight classes.” So what happens to the fight against Sandor Martin? On account of Matchroom, who represent him, not participating in the purse bid, the title defense now hangs in the limbo. Though Bob Arum seemingly hopes that better sense prevails and ‘The Dream’ joins the dance with the Spanish challenger.

Otherwise, a title unification with Teofimo Lopez also sounds good. Both the light welterweight champions already have a score to settle. In fact, the grudge match, as Devin Haney’s father Bill Haney called it, who knows, might turn up a decent money spinner.

What’s your take on Devin Haney’s future course of action? Should he take a rest for some time or proceed with the next fight?