DEVIN Haney has revealed that his eagerly anticipated return is being targeted for March, putting his mooted rematch with Ryan Garcia into question.
The pair squared off in a controversial showdown last year, with Garcia edging a majority decision after flooring his super lightweight rival three times.
But then, once it emerged that the 26-year-old had tested positive for Ostarine, a performance-enhancing substance, on two separate occasions, his victory was swiftly overturned to a no-contest.
In response to the pre-fight tests, the New York State Athletic Commission handed Garcia a year-long ban, lasting until April 20, after he claimed they were the result of contamination.
Since then, Haney has filed a lawsuit against ‘King Ry’ – alleging battery, fraud and breach of contract – while also expressing his interest in a potential rematch.
But now, it would appear that ‘The Dream’ is set to take on a different challenge, announcing on social media that he will return to action before Garcia’s ban expires.
“March.. I’m back,” he wrote on X yesterday.
While plans for an immediate rematch with Garcia have seemingly been scuppered, Haney is still yet to reveal any details on his next opponent.
It would, however, make sense for him to target a shot at WBC super lightweight titlist Alberto Puello, who seized the green and gold belt after Haney became the ‘champion in recess.’
At the same time, though, it is likely that the American will have a tune-up fight following his spell of inactivity, before looking to reclaim his old strap.
