Ryan Garcia has revealed a ‘confident’ prediction ahead of Devin Haney’s showdown with WBO welterweight champion Brian Norman Jr.
The two Americans will square off in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, this Saturday, featuring on the undercard of David Benavidez’s maiden WBC light-heavyweight title defence against Anthony Yarde.
Of the four world title offerings taking place on the same card, Norman-Haney seems to have created the greatest split among boxing fans.
Some have argued that Haney is no longer the assured fighter he once was, especially after getting dropped three times and ultimately outpointed by Garcia.
Their controversial encounter last year was followed by the news that Garcia had tested positive for banned substance ostarine, and his majority decision victory was therefore overturned to a no-contest.
But still, the safety-first approach that Haney adopted in his most recent outing against Jose Ramirez has led some to believe that his punch resistance could be questioned.
Norman on the other hand is an unbeaten operator that only seems to be growing in confidence, not least because of his highlight-reel fifth round knockout victory over Jin Sasaki in June.
That power is something which Haney must remain particularly mindful of, especially given that his most likely method of victory appears to be a points decision.
From a technical standpoint it seems that the 27-year-old boasts a clear advantage though, which is precisely why Garcia has sided with his former foe.
Taking to social media and expressing his viewpoint last week, Garcia opined that the two-division world champion, and former lightweight king, is likely to confuse his hard-hitting opponent.
“[I’m] confident that Devin Haney wins!! Reasoning is simply [experience] and I feel he will figure it out. It’s not about speed or power in this. I think Devin just frustrates Norman. [But] Norman can very much prove me wrong.”
A victory for Haney could potentially lead to a future showdown with Conor Benn, after the pair recently went back and forth after Benn’s triumph against Chris Eubank Jr on Saturday.
