In the aftermath of the highly anticipated bout between Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney, the focus initially rested on Garcia’s left hook, which seemingly wreaked havoc on Haney’s face.
However, recent revelations from Garcia’s trainer, Derrick James, have shed new light on the situation. James contends that it wasn’t just the left hook responsible for Haney’s facial swelling, but rather a combination of factors including a relentless jab and surprisingly, the straight right hand.
This perspective challenges the simplistic narrative of Garcia’s left hook as the sole weapon of destruction. Instead, it paints a picture of a more strategic approach employed by Garcia’s team.
Despite Haney’s reputation for technical prowess, Garcia’s camp seemed to have devised a plan to exploit vulnerabilities in Haney’s defense, utilizing the jab to create openings for powerful right-hand shots.
While Haney downplayed the severity of his injuries after the fight, assuring fans that he had not suffered any broken bones and expressing his readiness for a rematch, Derrick James had a different perspective. James emphasized the extent of Haney’s facial swelling, suggesting that it could pose significant challenges for his recovery and future performances.
James even speculated that an early knockout might have spared Haney from the extent of the damage he endured. He acknowledged Haney’s resilience but didn’t shy away from highlighting the arduous road ahead in terms of recovery and returning to peak form.
The question arises as to whether Haney’s corner should have considered stopping the fight earlier, given the visible damage he sustained. With contrasting opinions emerging from both sides, it opens up a discourse on the responsibilities of fighters’ corners in prioritizing their well-being amidst the intensity of competition.
