Devin Haney (31-1, 15 KOs) has called for a rematch between himself and Ryan Garcia (25-1, 20 KOs) after suffering the first defeat of his professional career at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
Garcia scored three knockdowns, claiming a majority decision and while his antics marred the lead-up to the all-Californian WBC super-lightweight title affair, Garcia was a worthy winner.
Garcia tipped the scales at 143.2 lbs, 3.2 lbs over the junior welterweight limit, which ultimately saw Haney retain his title by default. Garcia was also forced to pay a $1.5 million penalty for missing weight.
Haney, who had kept a low profile on social media following his defeat, broke his silence and credited Garcia for being the better man on the night.
“Ryan, despite the circumstances, was victorious that night, and that’s fine. I do feel like weight played a role in it, but only Allah knows,” Haney posted on Instagram.
“I would love to run it back and give the fans a FAIR fight within an agreed weight.
“That said, I am currently enjoying time with my family and friends and making up my days of Ramadan.
“Thank you to all my supporters & everyone involved in making this event happen.”
Immediately after the fight, Garica agreed to hand Haney a rematch.
Garica’s promoter, Oscar De la Hoya, has since quashed any prospect of a return and commented on Haney’s Instagram post: “Good luck with Eddie [Hearn], but there will not be a rematch. Good luck in your career and good luck with Eddie, a European promoter trying to make it in the US.”
