"The fact that the 26-year-old former undisputed lightweight champion finds himself in this position is unique considering that most fighters Haney's age haven't come close to his accomplishments. But 19 months ago, Haney's ascent in the boxing world was altered by Ryan Garcia's left hook. Haney hit the canvas three times in a fight that was ultimately declared a no-contest due to Garcia failing a drug test."
"But the damage was done. Haney's critics debated his status as one of the best pound-for-pound fighters in the world, even though, technically, he didn't suffer a loss. On Saturday, Haney will stand across the ring from another young fighter with a dangerous left hook in Brian Norman as he looks to close the chapter on what conspired at Barclays Center in April 2024."
Devin Haney's career is at a crossroads after early success as the former undisputed lightweight champion. Nineteen months ago Ryan Garcia's left hook knocked Haney down three times in a bout later ruled a no-contest after Garcia failed a drug test. Critics have questioned Haney's pound-for-pound standing despite the lack of an official loss. Haney will fight Brian Norman, a young opponent with a dangerous left hook, seeking to close the Barclays Center chapter and restore his status. Haney called the matchup his "kryptonite" fight and said a win would make him champion again. Haney's stock dipped after the Garcia fight and a lackluster win over Jose Ramirez.
Read at ESPN.com
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