After a devastating loss, a slump in confidence, and a loss to his record, Devin Haney moves forward in his career. The American boxer targets a quick return to the squared circle, as he wants to bounce back quickly and strongly. Despite the recent loss to Ryan Garcia, he wants to showcase his technical prowess and prove that he still belongs at the top. However, his choice of opponent is dividing the fans.

Haney, 25, will meet his WBC mandatory Sandor Martin next, as announced by the sanctioning body. The initial negotiations to agree on the terms hit a snag, and now they enter the amusing stage of purse bids to finalize the proceedings.

Devin Haney looks to put his career back on track

Michael Benson turned to his X handle and declared that Haney vs. Martin would go through purse bids on June 18. ‘The Dream,’ who clinched the WBC title from Regis Prograis last December, will make his first title defense. Notably, ‘KingRy’ failed to meet the weight in their clash, and therefore, the WBC gold was not on the line.

Benson wrote, “Devin Haney vs Sandor Martin purse bids are now scheduled for June 18th. Fight ordered by WBC as a mandatory defence of Haney’s WBC super-lightweight world title.”

Martin, 30, has been on a roll since faltering against Teofimo Lopez in 2022, and now, after a 2-win streak, finds himself on the cusp of another title opportunity. But the fans are divided over his credentials to put on a competitive fight. They also poked fun at Haney, at 31-1, who picked Martin instead of a rematch with Garcia or another champion from the division.

Boxing fans split over ‘The Dream’s choice of opponent

One fan questioned the WBC champion’s choice after Garcia dropped him to the canvas three times, overcoming his skills with his speed and power. Instead of a top name, Haney has opted for a tune-up fight in their eyes. They declared, “Devin Haney fighting nobodies because he got exposed.”

A user predicted an easy victory for the San Francisco native, given the gulf of skills and age difference between him and Martin. They announced, “Easy W for Devin Haney.”

A comment cautioned about Haney’s career. Any loss now would put his career in jeopardy, as it would not only rip him off his title but also dent his image as a top fighter. The comment read, “Could be the end of Haney’s career, so sad.”

Contrarily, labeling it an “easy fight,” someone demanded a better matchup and probably any of the champions of the super lightweight divisions. Haney has specified his intent for unification and has also been at loggerheads with Gervonta Davis. They noted, “Easy fight for Haney. We need Haney vs Teo, Cruz, Matias or Tank.”

Another fan called shots at Haney and accused him of beefing up his resume and racking up comfortable wins. However, the lightweight champion has already met the likes of George Kambosos Jr. and Vasiliy Lomachenko inside the ring. They responded, “Haney looking to stat pad here.”

A comment shed light on the legal saga between Haney and Garcia. The latter turned in positive results for ostarine and now faces a probable ban and a disqualification. Eddie Hearn and Haney’s legal team are pushing for a disqualification ruling, which would turn Haney’s loss into a no-contest and restore his undefeated status. The comment read, “Wonder if he’ll be announced as undefeated.”

What do you make of this coming fight between Devin Haney and Sandor Martin? Do you think Haney will return to his winning ways and regain his confidence? Let us know in the comments below.