Ryan Garcia Makes ‘Confident’ Prediction for Devin Haney vs. Brian Norman Jr: ‘It’s Simple’
Ryan Garcia revealed a “confident” prediction ahead of Devin Haney’s showdown with WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr.
The two Americans will face off this Saturday in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and will be on the undercard of David Benavidez’s first WBC light heavyweight title defense against Anthony Yarde.
Of the four world title bids taking place on the same card, Norman-Haney appears to have created the biggest divide among boxing fans.
Some have argued that Haney is no longer the confident fighter he once was, especially after being dropped three times and ultimately fingered by Garcia.
Their contentious encounter last year was followed by news that Garcia had tested positive for ostarine, a banned substance, and his majority decision victory was therefore overturned to a no contest.
Nonetheless, the safety-first approach Haney took in his last outing against Jose Ramirez led some to believe his punch resistance could be called into question.
Norman, on the other hand, is an undefeated operator who only seems to be growing in confidence, especially due to his fifth-round knockout victory over Jin Sasaki in June.
That power is something Haney needs to remain particularly mindful of, especially since his most likely method of victory appears to be a points decision.
From a technical standpoint, it appears the 27-year-old has a clear advantage, which is precisely why Garcia has sided with his former foe.
Taking to social media and expressing his views last week, Garcia felt that the two-division world champion and former lightweight king is likely to confuse his hard-hitting opponent.
“[I’m] confident that Devin Haney wins!! The reasoning is simply [experience] and I feel he will understand. It’s not about speed or power in this. I think Devin is just frustrating Norman. [But] Norman can really prove me wrong.
A victory for Haney could potentially lead to a future showdown with Conor Benn, after the two recently went back and forth following Benn’s triumph over Chris Eubank Jr on Saturday.
