The April 20 fight between Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia is one that all boxing fans are talking about – but for all the wrong reasons.
Former amateur rivals who faced each other six times and each came away with three wins and three losses, Haney and Garcia are now set to face off as professionals in what should be a celebrated occasion of two young stars boxing for high stakes. But that is not the case.
Garcia and his recent antics have stolen the headlines, raising questions about his mental health and whether he should be allowed in the ring in just a few weeks. The New York State Athletic Commission reportedly wants him to undergo an evaluation before he challenges for Haney’s WBC junior welterweight title.
This will be Garcia’s second attempt at winning a world title, after he was stopped by lightweight titleholder Gervonta Davis last April.
Former junior middleweight beltholder Austin Trout knows a thing or two about what it takes to win a world title, and he believes Garcia’s mental state has been the reason he has failed to reach the sport’s pinnacle.
“It’s a good fight if Ryan shows up and, say, all this other circus acts hadn't been happening,” Trout said. “I don't think it would have been [an easy fight] for Devin.
“But that's what I’ve always thought was the problem with Ryan Garcia; he’s got all the ability, but he doesn’t have the heart or the mental game to really be where he should be – and he’s just proving that.”
The recent statements from Garcia and the reported mental health examination request have increased speculation about whether the contest will even take place. Trout admitted he would be surprised to see Haney and Garcia face off on the proposed date.
“I mean, it would be kind of a little bit of a surprise if it does [go ahead],” Trout said. “You know what I mean? Then Ryan says he's gonna be off Instagram until the fight. It's all that weird stuff. I don't know if it's going to happen.”
Trout was clear when asked who he thought would be taking home the title if the two fighters do meet next month: “Devin,” Trout said. “Devin gets better and better every time. Like Canelo [Alvarez], he works hard. He’ll stay working. He’s hungry right now.”
Trout, who is ranked No. 11 by the WBA at junior middleweight, is also looking forward to the launch of Season 2 of “Team Combat League” on March 28. Trout, coaching Team Houston Hitman, hopes to pass on his knowledge to the next generation of fighters.
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