The Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia rivalry is messier than ever. They had a friendly rivalry in the amateur scene. However, it has become personal and controversial during their professional run. The entire lawsuit drama between the two fighters has escalated due to multiple allegations following their fight earlier this April. However, ‘King Ry’ is over all of it now. Here is what happened:
Devin Haney claimed that Ryan Garcia violated rules by missing weight and testing positive for Ostarine, a banned performance-enhancing drug. Additionally, Garcia reportedly used an IV before the bout, which is prohibited. Haney argues that these, combined with Garcia’s erratic behavior and statements, caused him significant harm—both physically and financially. Meanwhile, Garcia just wants to let things go.
Haney has sued for damages, claiming he would not have fought had he known about these violations. The lawsuit includes accusations of battery, fraud, and unjust enrichment. In the battery charge, Haney stated that Garcia using banned substances rendered the fight non-consensual. This is because the terms of a fair bout were broken.
I’m so over this Haney fight but they keep on bothering me and talking about it
I’m ready for bigger things
Leave me alone, I already beat your ass
Nothing else to prove
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) September 30, 2024
Haney also challenged the financial terms of the bout. He stated that Garcia unjustly retained millions of dollars from the fight earnings. Also, Golden Boy Promotions (Garcia’s promoter) allegedly withheld money that should have been shared. Haney’s team requests the forfeited purse be returned and put into escrow. Amidst all this, Haney is willing to consider a rematch if Garcia agrees to stricter drug testing.
Ryan Garcia will take a tune-up bout rather than rematch Devin Haney
King Ry initially won the fight against Devin Haney. However, testing positive for ostarine ultimately rendered the fight a no-contest. Garcia has refused to give Haney a rematch because of the legal battle. He expressed on social media that Haney’s legal actions feel like nothing more than a “money grab.” He wrote he has no interest in a rematch given the “funny business” surrounding the lawsuit.
Haney’s lawsuit puts him in a precarious situation. He is not a major pay-per-view draw like Garcia. Without a high-profile rematch, his earning potential might crash. Currently, there are no major stars in Haney’s weight classes (140 and 147 pounds) who could offer him a lucrative fight comparable to a Garcia rematch. This has left Haney potentially stranded in terms of securing a big-money bout.
Boxing jail going quick
I’ll be in the ring in no time
I’m already going after the biggest fights
Maybe one tune up bc it’s been a year
— RYAN GARCIA (@RyanGarcia) September 24, 2024
From Garcia’s perspective, he sees little value in a rematch, especially with the ongoing legal drama. He stated that even if Haney wins the lawsuit, it would not significantly impact his career. Garcia is already looking ahead to other opportunities. ‘King Ry’ hinted at fighting in Dubai or Tokyo, suggesting he might require a tune-up before resuming his career.