Devin Haney returns to action next month after over a year out of the ring, facing former unified super lightweight world champion, Jose Ramirez.
The 26-year-old former undisputed champion was last out against Ryan Garcia in April of 2024. Following an erratic and oftentimes worrying build-up from Garcia, he upset the odds by dropped the champion three times and handing him his first loss via majority decision.
Celebrations were short-lived, however, when it was found that Garcia had twice tested positive for banned substance Ostarine. The result was overturned to a no contest and Garcia was banned for one year. He now returns on the same card as Haney, facing Rolando ‘Rolly’ Romero, in the hopes that both a-side fighters win to set up a rematch later in the year.
Speaking on DAZN, De La Hoya did not hesitate to back his charge Ramirez to upset those plans.
“I feel that Ramirez is gonna do a number on Devin Haney. We’re not gonna see Ryan Garcia-Devin Haney 2. I believe Ramirez will stop the show.”
In a seperate interview with Boxing Scene, De La Hoya believes the events of the Garcia fight have made Haney ‘a shot fighter.’
“Ramirez is coming in guns blazing. He senses the opportunity … I feel Devin is a shot fighter after what Ryan Garcia did to him … I’ve seen [Devin’s] demeanour … he looks lost. Look, Ramirez still has his power, his legs and a left hook.”
Haney looks to prove his doubters wrong on May 3 at Times Square, New York City. Ramirez steps through the ropes off the back of a loss to Arnold Barboza last year. The fight will take place at a 144 pounds catchweight.
