Devin Haney Back In The Mix.

Devin Haney: The Path of Resilience and Redemption

Article By: John Green

Devin Haney’s journey through the world of boxing has always been one defined by perseverance, sacrifice, and a deep determination to prove his worth. The recent interview on The Art of Ward podcast reveals more than just behind-the-scenes details of his negotiations and fallout with friends and rivals—it offers a window into the heart of a fighter who refuses to back down, even in the face of adversity.

One part of the interview was Haney’s candid revelation about the fallout with Shakur Stevenson, a former friend and fellow rising star. This friendship that once blossomed with mutual respect has now withered, the rift widening as Haney navigates the business and politics of the sport. Haney unlike the great Mike Tyson believes that there are no friends in boxing and the estrangement reflects the cutthroat nature of boxing—how, at times, relationships are sacrificed on the altar of ambition. However Devin Haney made it clear he takes none of it personal.

The interview also shed light on the George Kambosos negotiations. Haney was offered one of the worst deals in boxing history. However, understanding that he would never get another shot he took whatever was offered as he was told that he could not negotiate the price or even talk to anyone about the deal. If word got out that he discussed the bad deal they would pull the opportunity. It all seems like they never wanted Haney to take the fight. He did. Devin Haney put money to the side and let his legacy take priority and was rewarded with his hand raised as the undisputed king in the 135 lb division.

Perhaps one of the most surprising revelations was Haney’s disclosure about Teofimo Lopez. According to Haney, Turki Alalshikh, the Saudi prince with growing influence in boxing, had offered Lopez a fight, but his team declined, stating that Lopez “was not ready.” For fans who have been increasingly frustrated with Lopez’s choices in and out of the ring, this feels like another punch to the gut. Lopez, who once electrified audiences, has seen his reputation tarnished by controversial comments and lackluster fights. For Haney, this is a missed opportunity—a chance to test himself against another big name in the sport and continue proving his greatness.

And then there’s Ryan Garcia. Despite suffering a brutal loss to Garcia, a fight marred by Garcia’s positive test for Ostarine, Haney remains steadfast in his desire for a rematch. While Garcia’s use of a banned substance has sparked a debate, Haney’s resilience is clear: he wants to face Garcia again, this time on an even playing field. Yet, even as Haney talks about how the drug may have impacted the fight, some fans were hoping for more self-reflection—perhaps an acknowledgment that the wrong strategy may have played a role, too. The three knockdowns Haney suffered from Garcia’s lightning-fast power punch shifted the fight, and many feel Haney should own that part of the narrative as well.

What stands out most in this interview, however, is not the controversy or the drama—it’s the resilience. Despite everything—difficult negotiations, lost friendships, disappointing losses—Haney’s fire burns brighter than ever. He hasn’t let the hardships crush his spirit. If anything, he seems more determined to prove he belongs at the top of the sport, especially in the 140 lb division.

What makes Devin Haney’s story so compelling is not just his skill in the ring but his unwavering faith in his team and the solid foundation around him. His father, Bill Haney, has been a constant presence, guiding his son in a sport where many fighters are often exploited or misled by those in their inner circle. Haney’s ability to navigate these pitfalls, all while refusing to align with a major promoter, has given him a level of independence that many fighters dream of. Yet, this path has not been without its sacrifices. Haney’s choices have sometimes meant accepting bad deals and being blackballed by powerful entities in the sport. Still, through sheer determination, he has fought his way to the top, becoming the youngest undisputed champion in the four-belt era.

This journey is one of resilience—overcoming not just physical challenges in the ring but the emotional and mental battles outside of it. Through every setback, Devin Haney has proven that he’s not just a fighter, but a warrior, willing to face the hardest roads to cement his place in boxing history.

As Haney reflects on his path, it’s clear that the hurdles, the doubters, and even the losses have not diminished his ambition—they’ve fueled it. For fans of the sport, this is what makes Devin Haney special. He is a fighter who doesn’t just want greatness—he fights for it, he sacrifices for it, and he is willing to take the hard hits, both literally and figuratively, to get there.

In the end, Haney’s story is far from over. With so much still ahead of him, fans can only expect more drama, more challenges, and, undoubtedly, more comebacks from the fighter who refuses to stay down.

The question now is: Will the boxing world finally give Devin Haney the recognition he deserves? And can he, against all odds, reign supreme once more in a division brimming with talent?

Time will tell, but if history is any indicator, Devin Haney will be ready for whatever comes his way.