(Interview by Declan Warrington)
BN: Prior to your triumph in December against Regis Prograis, critics argued that you were undeserving of the decision against Vasyl Lomachenko. As we approach Saturday’s fight, the narrative has shifted, highlighting your exceptional performance against Prograis. How has this change impacted your preparations for this upcoming bout?
DH: Ultimately, my attitude remains unaffected. I am a genuine professional. Thus, whatever criticism may arise from my previous performance holds no significance. My sole concentration lies in preparing myself for this upcoming fight. The past is in the past, and now I must demonstrate my abilities once more, which I am fully determined to achieve.
BN: Were you concerned about Ryan Garcia’s inconsistent behavior leading up to Saturday’s fight?
DH: Ultimately, I had confidence that Ryan would make an appearance. This fight holds immense significance for him too. Instead of fixating on Ryan’s attendance, I must direct my energy towards being true to myself, fully prepared, and striving to be the best version of myself. It doesn’t matter if it’s Ryan or anyone else in the ring.
Given the extent to which BN’s profile and behavior have reduced the pressure on you to promote the occasion, have you been able to enjoy the build-up to your fight?
DH: Absolutely. I’ve spent countless hours in the dungeon honing my skills and meticulously preparing my tools for battle. There’s so much happening behind the scenes, and it will undoubtedly be evident on fight night. It will serve as a testament to my unwavering focus and unwavering dedication.
BN: How much do you agree with the characterization of Garcia’s behavior as an “act”?
DH: Once again, let me emphasize that I am not concerned about anything else. My main objective is to strive towards becoming the best version of myself, channeling my energy towards personal growth. I am determined to step into that arena and deliver an outstanding performance, showcasing my skills at their finest.
We need to assess the situation. He’s a C-level [fighter], meaning he’s just an average fighter with some recognition. On the other hand, I am an elite-level fighter. I surpass him by multiple levels. I am the genuine article. This individual may have popularity as an average fighter, but I will demonstrate that he doesn’t belong at the top tier.
BN: As amateurs, you achieved a 3-3 record. In your opinion, how much progress do you believe he has made since then? Additionally, how significant is it for you to resolve your rivalry?
DH: I need to share the ring with him to find out, but he doesn’t possess the same elite level skills as I do.
This is of utmost importance. It is now the moment for me to finally bring an end to this Devin-Ryan saga. On April 20, the superior individual shall emerge victorious, and that shall be me. Inshallah.
BN: It is not a secret that Arnold Barboza Jnr has been on standby to take his place. Are your preparations affected by the potential of his replacement?
DH: Absolutely not. My primary objective is to go up against Ryan Garcia and give it my all to become the best version of myself. Arnold Barboza is merely a part of the undercard for his own reasons. The audience is here primarily to witness the showdown between Ryan Garcia and me.
BN: In 2022, you had a series of fights in Australia and achieved your greatest victory by defeating Lomachenko in Las Vegas. Later, you drew a substantial crowd in San Francisco when facing Prograis. How crucial is it for you to leave a lasting impact on the East Coast during your upcoming weekend fight?
DH: It’s truly a dream come true, by the grace of Allah. I am immensely grateful for this opportunity. I have always aspired to be on such prestigious stages, and now I find myself here. What better place than New York City, the global hub, where everyone’s attention is focused? Every single person can witness the magnificence that I bring to the table.
I find great joy in fight week. It’s the exciting part where I get to display my skills and demonstrate to the world my full potential. These are the moments I’ve dreamt of and worked hard for, so I am grateful to finally experience them. As a young child, I watched many fighters during their fight week, doing interviews, and I aspired to be in their shoes one day. Now that my time has arrived, I want to fully embrace every aspect of it. I have a deep appreciation for the process and the anticipation it brings.
I hold no belief in the concept of pressure. Instead, I place my unwavering faith and trust in Allah, allowing Him to assume control.
BN: Prior to facing Prograis at super lightweight, you were already discussing the possibility of moving up to welterweight. However, your exceptional performance in that fight has made us question if your plans have now been altered.
DH: My ultimate goal is to become a legendary figure in the sport, leaving a lasting legacy. I envision myself moving up in weight classes, just like the greats before me, and proving my worth through my performances. I aspire to achieve the same level of recognition and success as the legends of the sport, even surpassing them. To accomplish this, I must defeat formidable opponents, one by one. My immediate focus is on defeating Ryan Garcia, and our upcoming bout on April 20 will undoubtedly be an explosive event that the entire world will witness.
BN: Are you in alignment with the individuals asserting that Garcia will engage in reckless fighting, just as he seems to have readied himself for this match?
DH: Indeed. Anticipating his recklessness, I expect him to encounter an obstacle. I plan to exploit his aggression and inflict harm upon him. Undoubtedly, it will cause him pain.
He is going to experience a hundred percent pain. However, I won’t participate by running around the ring. It won’t be difficult to locate me.
