DAZN’s Mora On Devin Haney- “Everyone Wants To See Big KO”

Later Saturday night at the Hard Rock Casino in Hollywood, FL, WBC World Lightweight champ, Devin Haney, will look to remain unbeaten against a rugged veteran. But, what is the perceived expectation for the up and coming 135 lb. titleholder?

We posed that question to DAZN analyst and former World Title contender, Sergio Mora, on our most recent Big Fight Weekend Podcast. Mora told us that Haney can’t just get caught up on what the fans wan to see,

“Everyone wants to see a big knockout like he had against Antonio Moran. But, you know, when he starts fighting unbeaten fighters, ranked fighters, he can’t be knocking out everyone like that,” Mora told us.

“So I expect him (Haney) to fight like an ‘Old Bull.’ He’s a ‘Young Bull,’ but fight like an ‘Old Bull’…. He controls the middle of the ring great behind the disciplined jab. He stabs him downstairs. He turns those jabs into quick left hooks and overhand rights. But, he does by breaking down opponents by angles and using distance.  

The guy is an ‘A+ talent,’ an ‘A+ fighter’ …that’s all he needs to do. Be himself.”

Haney, 24-0, 15 KOs, will be making the first defense of his crown that he won last November in a 12 round decision (above) in L.A. over Alfredo Santiago. Shortly after that win, he had to have shoulder surgery and a lengthy rehab and recovery.

Haney said earlier in the buildup about coming off the surgery to defend  Saturday night,

“No athlete wants to ever be injured. I took the time I needed to listened to the doctors and let my body rest. One good thing from the social distancing and stay-at-home orders was it occurred during the time I was recovering, so I was able to be fully rested once the gyms reopened. I am now 100% and better than ever, you will see on fight night.” 

Now, will there be some rust against the 38 year old Gamboa, who pushed Gervonta Davis into the 12th round before being stopped last December?

Probably.

And, that’s what Mora was referring to about the how that he faces this challenge of an opponent who was once a smaller weight World champ, himself.

There’s no doubt that Haney has talent and potential. Now that it’s his stage, can he deliever?