Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia will face off again in a big rematch later this year. The two fighters have unfinished business after their first bout ended in controversy.
Their initial clash took place in April 2023. Garcia showed up several pounds overweight, making him ineligible to challenge for Haney's WBC super-lightweight title. Despite this setback, Garcia put on a career-best performance. He floored Haney three times and won via majority decision, handing Haney his first professional defeat.
Garcia's victory stunned many boxing fans and experts alike. However, the celebration was short-lived. It came to light that Garcia had tested positive for Ostarine before the bout. As a result, the fight was ruled a no-contest. Garcia faced severe consequences, including a one-year suspension and a fine of over $1 million.
Haney downplayed Garcia's power after the fight. He said:
"He caught me early … It caught me by surprise. I fell asleep on the left hook. We trained for it but I got in there and fell asleep … I was more surprised than hurt. The first time I wasn't really hurt. He went in there and jumped on me, like I knew he would, but I was sleeping."
Now, both fighters have a chance to settle the score. The rematch deal has been confirmed and is expected to take place in late 2025.
Before they meet again, both fighters have other challenges ahead. On May 2 in Times Square, New York City, Garcia will take on Rolando 'Rolly' Romero in a welterweight bout. On the same card, Haney will face Jose Ramirez, a former unified super-lightweight champion.
The rematch between Haney and Garcia promises to be a major event in the boxing world. Fans will watch closely to see if Garcia can replicate his previous performance or if Haney, known as "The Dream," can reclaim his status as an undefeated champion.
