Devin Haney, the WBC Super Lightweight World Champion, recently requested to be placed in the status of Champion in Recess. The decision was made public by the World Boxing Council in a press statement on Monday. The WBC Board of Governors unanimously granted Haney’s request and declared him the WBC World Champion in Recess. This move comes after Haney’s controversial defeat to Ryan Garcia, which left many questioning his future in the sport.
In response to Haney’s request, the WBC Board of Governors declared the current Interim World Champion, Alberto Puello, as the new WBC World Super Lightweight Champion. According to the WBC’s Rules and Regulations, Puello is now set to enter into free negotiations for his mandatory title defense against Sandor Martin, the WBC’s #1-rated challenger and mandatory contender.
Devin Haney’s reign as the WBC junior welterweight king was short-lived. After defeating Vasyl Lomachenko in a close fight to become the undisputed lightweight champion of the world, Haney quickly moved up to the junior welterweight division. He faced off against Regis Prograis for the WBC belt and emerged victorious in a dominant performance in his hometown of San Francisco.
However, Haney’s triumph was short-lived, as his next bout against Ryan Garcia ended in a devastating loss. Despite finishing the fight on his feet, Haney was dropped three times in three different rounds, leading to a decision loss. Garcia’s victory was tainted when it was discovered that he had tested positive for the banned substance ostarine before and after the fight, leading to his victory being stripped by the New York State Athletic Commission.
With Garcia’s positive drug test results, Haney was somewhat vindicated, but the damage had already been done. The physical and emotional impact of his loss to Garcia remains a question mark, as Haney contemplates his next move in the sport. Despite the setback, Haney’s undeniable talent and fighting spirit may pave the way for a successful comeback in the future.
Devin Haney’s decision to step away from the WBC title as Champion in Recess marks a significant turning point in his career. The controversial nature of his defeat to Ryan Garcia raises questions about the integrity of the sport and the challenges faced by boxers in an increasingly competitive landscape. Haney’s journey serves as a reminder of the resilience and determination required to navigate the highs and lows of professional boxing.
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