Devin Haney has unexpectedly secured the WBC’s #1 ranking at welterweight following a shaky showing against Ryan Garcia and a 10-month hiatus. The decision, being honest, raised eyebrows among many, given Haney’s lack of recent activity and the controversy surrounding his last fight. Still, the WBC has a history of rankings that puzzle outsiders while making sense to those inside its system.
Reports suggest Haney could return in May against former champion Jose Ramirez on the undercard of Ryan Garcia vs. Rolando “Rolly” Romero in the Riyadh Season lineup. However, some believe he’d be wiser to target WBC welterweight champion Mario Barrios instead, as it would give him a direct shot at a world title and potentially a more forgiving style. Ramirez’s persistent pressure and willingness to engage in close quarters could expose Haney’s flaws if he resorts to excessive clinching.
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Interestingly, the WBC might be counting on Haney’s superior skill set to re-energize the 147-pound division. Yet the lingering question is whether he can withstand heavy shots after being dropped multiple times by Garcia - whose eventual win was turned into a no-contest due to a positive test for Ostarine. Despite the record books being altered, the physical toll of those knockdowns remains a factor.
Haney faces a crossroads: grab a belt against a fighter like Barrios, or risk a rugged brawl with Ramirez, who won’t be deterred by clinches. If you were him, which option would you've chosen?