1) Assume nothing
Given the nature of boxing, it is wise to refrain from asserting our expertise, as we are often reminded of our limitations and the fallibility of our knowledge when our preconceived notions are proven incorrect after a match.
2) Weight matters
Although the weight difference between Garcia and Haney at the pre-fight weigh-in was only three pounds, it was more significant in terms of energy expenditure than anything else. By coming in overweight, Garcia seemingly managed to avoid the rigorous weight cut that Haney endured. This distinction could have played a crucial role in the outcome of the fight.
3) One special punch
On Saturday night, the distinction between Haney and Garcia was evident. Haney, renowned for his exceptional performance powered by a consistent, commanding left jab, contrasts with Garcia, who possesses the ability to swiftly shift the course of a fight with a solitary left hook. This unique attribute proved to be the defining factor between them.
4) Knockdowns matter
Frequently, we have witnessed fights being determined by knockdowns, especially when multiple knockdowns occur in a long-range battle. This Saturday was no different, as each time Garcia managed to bring Haney down, the tide of the fight shifted in his favor, leading to necessary adjustments in the scorecards.
5) Underestimate an opponent at your peril
Even though Haney publicly claimed that Garcia was exaggerating his self-destruction, deep down he couldn’t help but be influenced by his opponent’s behavior and the belief that this match would be a piece of cake. Even if it was at a subconscious level, Haney would have stepped into the ring on Saturday with the assumption that victory was already guaranteed.
Devin Haney gets wobbled by Ryan Garcia in a photo captured by Al Bello/Getty Images.
6) And still…
Despite losing to Garcia in Brooklyn, Haney will retain the WBC super-welterweight belt since Garcia did not meet the necessary weight requirement of 140 pounds for the fight. While this victory may be insignificant and lacking substance, it does provide Haney with some advantage for future endeavors.
7) Welterweights?
Both Garcia’s hesitance or incapability to meet the super-lightweight limit of 140 pounds, along with Haney’s inability to withstand the powerful punches thrown by Garcia, indicate that it is highly likely that both boxers might consider pursuing their future in the welterweight division, which is seven pounds higher.
8) Do it again
The fight held great intrigue due to Garcia’s behavior, but it wasn’t necessarily a must-watch or seen as highly competitive beforehand. However, after witnessing Garcia effortlessly hurt Haney, an immediate rematch between them would not only be more financially rewarding but also the most sensible decision to take.
9) Bill Haney was wrong
Not only was Bill Haney, Devin’s father, mistaken in his predictions and portrayal of how this fight would unfold, but he was also entirely mistaken in suggesting beforehand that he was sending his son out to “kill” Ryan Garcia.
10) Ryan Garcia was right
Although Ryan Garcia’s behavior was occasionally disturbing and repugnant, he managed to accomplish his mission of unsettling Devin Haney and leaving him both confused and humbled. However, it would be an exaggeration to suggest that everything was meticulously planned by Garcia; he may not deserve as much credit as some might think.
This is a picture of Ryan Garcia taken by Sam Hodde/Getty Images.
