DAZN Boxing: Chase Center; San Francisco, California
After a win especially a one-sided dominant one, you can say that athlete is a world beater. But what you have to do is step back and look at the big picture. That’s not to say Devin Haney isn’t worthy of that praise for what he did to Regis Prograis for the last 11-rounds of their 12-round fight. But, with the 120-107 unanimous decision win for Haney; the push to become a two-division champion went from a dream to a reality.
The white washing of the now former WBC super lightweight champion had him look clumsy because of Haney’s speed. The highlight being the third-round knockdown via a straight right. Post-fight Prograis admitted that Haney was faster than he expected. Haney himself talked about how key staying with the gameplan that his team put together was important. And that was move to the left, and walk him down. And the extra five-pounds at 140 made a difference, as he could sit on his punches better.
The fact Prograis had no real answer to anything being thrown at him sends a message to others in the division. Especially since “Rougarou” IS a power puncher. Haney’s most improved weapon on the night was the occassionally used right uppercut. Rattling Prograis with it from the outside is one thing. But if he can use it effectively against others that are able to get inside on him, the now two-division champion may indeed become a two-time undisputed champion. But we are still a long way away from that.
Does The Dream To A Reality Adventure Continue
Promoter Eddie Hearn did throw out names like Ryan Garcia, Teofimo Lopez, and Gervonta Davis. There’s no doubt that just because of everyone’s hand speed the fights could be electric. However, because of a little less hand speed, but a more awkward style of fighting Rolando Romero might just be an even more interesting fight.
They’d all have great lead ups as they all love to chirp. Lopez and Haney had been rumored for a while when both were at 135. Both have obviously filled out and look better at 140. Tank being on paper the most dangerous with his one-punch power. However, he’d have to get inside to connect. That’s why Haney’s uppercut is important. Haney chin wasn’t at all touched versus Prograis, so we still don’t know how it would hold up. But if his foot speed is on point, that might not be a question.
The saying is “styles make fights”, hence why “Rolly” would be arguably the most intriguing scrap. They’re almost mirror images of each other in punch selection. It would be a high stakes, high speed, chess-match from the outside. Whether Haney can handle another move up; to 147 right now is highly unlikely.
For sports news, go to: Belly Up Sports. And all things CYCLONE can be found at: Facebook.
