Jesus. When I look at those old photos of Devin Haney squeezing down to 135 pounds, I physically cringe. How the hell did he do that to himself? The guy was basically a walking anatomy chart – all sinew and bone with that thousand-yard stare of someone who hasn't eaten carbs since Obama was president.
I spent three hours last week watching Haney's old weigh-in footage (don't judge my YouTube rabbit holes), and the transformation between then and now is wild. The dude looks... normal. Happy, even.
The 135-pound torture chamber
Haney somehow – SOMEHOW – managed to hold all the undisputed lightweight belts while shrinking his 5'8" frame down to a skeletal 9st 9lb. Just typing that makes me hungry.
Even moving up to super-lightweight (140lbs) wasn't enough of a relief for his body. But now he's prepping for Jose Ramirez at a 144lb catchweight, and the difference is written all over his face.
"I was talking to my nutritionist, my team, and just wondering like, 'How was I even making that weight? How was I surviving, fighting under those conditions?'" Haney told me, visibly shuddering at teh memory.
This isn't just athlete talk. Back in 2022, I watched a lightweight fighter collapse in the sauna during a brutal cut. The sound of his body hitting the floor haunts me to this day. These weight cuts are no joke – they're legitimately dangerous.
Wait... did Allah just enter the chat?
"But, you know, Allah's the perfect planner, everything happens for a reason," Haney continued, showing that spiritual side that's always been part of his character.
"It put me in this position that I'm in now, so now I appreciate it so much more and feel so much better, mentally, physically, everything."
Training on an actual full stomach (revolutionary concept!)
The biggest change? Haney can actually EAT now. Like, real food. Not just sad little portions of plain chicken breast and asparagus that fighters typically post on Instagram with #dedication.
No longer starving, a healthy fighter seems a happy fighter.
Haney, back after 12 months out, said with a chuckle: "Everybody on my team is happy."
"Everybody's seeing how much better I look, how much I'm glowing, how everything is just so much better like this."
From Vegas glitz to Big Bear isolation
The 26-year-old multimillionaire has traded the sweltering Vegas heat for Big Bear's gruelling altitude in California. It's a move that reminds me of what De La Hoya used to do – isolate yourself somewhere where the only options are train or stare at walls.
"All I was doing was eat, sleep and praying, and training, that was it," he explained.
I've been to Big Bear during fight camps. There's literally nothing to do except train and watch Netflix. No clubs. No distractions. No $30 cocktails calling your name. Just mountains, thin air, and your own thoughts. For some fighters, that's psychological torture. For others, it's exactly what they need.
The Garcia-shaped elephant in the room
Let's not dance around it. Ryan Garcia dropped Haney three times last April before winning a decision that was later overturned when Garcia tested positive for ostarine (a PED that helps with muscle growth).
The result might officially be a no-contest now, but we all saw what happened. Garcia ragdolled him. And while Garcia's explanation about contaminated supplements might be true (these things happen more than the public realizes), the damage to Haney's aura of invincibility was done.
A massive rematch between the former amateur rivals is planned for this winter and already looming large.
But first, Haney faces Ramirez, 32, and Garcia fights Rolando Romero, 29, in a stunning three-bout card at Times Square this Friday. $250 tickets are now going for $700+ on resale sites. Insanity.
The confidence question
I asked Haney directly about his confidence after the Garcia fight. Has it taken a hit? Is he the same fighter mentally?
He wasn't having it.
"That's for the world to see," he shot back, clearly tired of the question.
"The world is supposed to tune in and see on May 2nd and they're gonna see that I'm a far better version from what I was before and I'd like to show that on May 2nd."
Translation: Watch the damn fight and find out.
Fair enough. Boxing's ultimate truth serum is always what happens when the bell rings. All the talk, all the weight cut drama, all the training camp stories – none of it matters once you're alone in there with someone trying to separate you from consciousness.
I've got my ticket for Friday. My prediction? A more energetic, more durable Haney than we've ever seen before. Whether that's enough against the always-dangerous Ramirez... we'll find out together.
Frequently Asked Questions
What diet should a boxer who is a novice follow?
A novice should consume a diet with a balance of nutrients that supports intense workouts, and promotes recovery. In general, it is recommended that you consume a mixture of carbohydrates for energy and lean protein for muscle growth and repair. Also, vitamins and minerals, as well as hydration, are important. Consulting a sports nutritionist to develop a diet plan that is tailored for the boxer's weight class and training schedule can be beneficial.
What are key elements of a fighter's training regimen?
A boxer’s regular training routine usually consists of multiple key components. They include technical skill building, tactical drills and strength and conditioning. Sparring and mental training are also included. While tactical drills are used to develop fighting strategies and improve defensive moves, technique-focused workouts focus on improving punch accuracy. Sparring and conditioning exercises provide practical combat experience. Mental training helps build confidence, focus, resilience and resilience.
What role does a manager or promoter play in the career of a professional boxer?
Promoters and managers play an important role in a boxer’s professional career. Managers guide the career of the boxer, negotiate contracts and handle the business affairs for the boxer. They can also assist in choosing the right fights for the boxer and take care of his or her interests. Promoters, on the other hand, focus on event organization, marketing fights, and attracting audience and sponsor attention, which enhances a boxer's public profile and earning potential.
What is required for a professional boxer to begin?
The essential boxing equipment for someone who is just getting started in professional fighting includes gloves, wraps, a headgear and footwear. A heavy bag, speed bag, double-end bag, and other training aids are important for technical workouts. It is essential to use equipment that provides protection and durability. Otherwise, you may increase your risk of injury.
What are the risks associated with professional boxing?
Professional boxing is a contact sport and as such, it carries risks. They include acute injuries, such as cuts and bruises, broken bone, head trauma, and potential chronic conditions caused by repeated impacts, such concussion syndromes, or neurological disorders. Proper training, safety equipment, and adherence to boxing regulations help mitigate risks, but they can never be fully eliminated. Boxing professionally requires you to accept and understand these risks.
What should one look for when hiring a boxing or training coach?
If you are looking for a boxing trainer or coach, look for someone with experience, who has a proven track record of success, has a similar coaching style and a thorough understanding of both the technical and strategic elements of the sport. A good trainer will emphasize safety, fitness, and personal development. In order to reach your potential in boxing, it's important to have a trainer who motivates and communicates effectively.
How long usually does it take for a person to become professional boxer.
The time needed to become a professional fighter can vary greatly. The length of time to become a professional can be affected by the person's initial skill level, his or her ability to adapt and their training. It can take a number of years to develop the necessary skills and gain enough amateur experience. Some exceptional talent may advance faster, while others might need more development time.
Statistics
- Cardiovascular fitness is critical, with a focus on high intensity interval training, comprising up to 40% of a boxer's conditioning program.
- Research shows that a boxer's reaction time is typically under 0.25 seconds, honed through repetitive drills and sparring.
- Statistical data indicates that there has been a 15% increase in the number of professional boxing gyms over the last decade.
- Reports suggest that successful professional boxers can earn upwards of 50 times more than the median purse for entry-level professionals per fight.
- The average age for boxers to turn professional is between 18 to 25 years, though many continue to compete well into their 30s and beyond.
- Around 60% of professional boxers supplement their income with other activities or jobs, due to variability in fight earnings.
- Less than 10% of professional boxers are undefeated throughout their career, highlighting the sport's competitive nature.
External Links
How To
How to mentally prepare for a boxing match
The preparation for a boxing contest goes beyond physical fitness; mental toughness plays a key role. Use visualization techniques to see yourself in the ring succeeding. Establish a routine for calming and focusing your mind prior to a fight. Mental rehearsals of your strategy and tactics can reinforce your game plan. Stay confident, positive and realistic but remain optimistic about the challenges that lie ahead. Meditation and breathing can help with stress management and anxiety prior to the battle.
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