Teofimo Lopez Shows Sympathy Towards Devin Haney Amid Career Setbacks

Following Devin Haney’s significant loss to Ryan Garcia, compounded by Garcia’s subsequent PED controversies, the boxing world has been abuzz with reactions, including unexpected empathy from Teofimo Lopez towards Haney.

In April, Haney faced a crushing defeat against Ryan Garcia in a highly anticipated bout. However, Garcia’s multiple positive tests for performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs) led to repercussions from the New York State Athletics Commission,

resulting in Haney retaining his unbeaten record. Despite this technicality, Haney’s reputation took a hit, affecting his ability to secure high-profile fights.

Teofimo Lopez, known as ‘The Takeover,’ recently expressed reluctance when asked about the possibility of fighting Devin Haney. During an interview in Anaheim, California, Lopez responded with sympathy, acknowledging Haney’s challenging situation. “Haney is just going through his thing, man, so I can’t really…” Lopez trailed off, hinting at the complexities of Haney’s career post-Garcia.

Adding to the complexities, Haney’s decision to relinquish his WBC Lightweight belt due to contractual disputes with Top Rank further muddled his path back to the top. Lopez highlighted that the financial terms offered for a potential fight with Haney didn’t align with his career goals, leading to a standoff.

Meanwhile, Devin Haney remains resolute about seeking redemption against Ryan Garcia once the latter completes his suspension, which ends on April 20, 2025. In an interview with Ariel Helwani, Haney expressed his determination to make Garcia pay for the damage caused to his career and reputation. “The sht that he did, I want to make him pay for the sht that he did,” Haney emphasized, signaling his intent for a rematch once Garcia is eligible.

As Haney prepares for his return to the ring after a one-year absence, stemming from Garcia’s doping scandal fallout, the boxing community continues to speculate on the future dynamics between these fighters. While Garcia’s actions have cast a shadow over both his and Haney’s careers, Lopez’s gesture of sympathy underscores the personal and professional challenges facing Haney in his quest for redemption.