WBC Orders Haney To Face Martin, What’s Next For Ryan Garcia?

Devin Haney has been ordered to defend his WBC Junior Welterweight Belt against Sandor Martin, with purse bids set for July 18. 

The news comes after Haney lost to Ryan Garcia on April 20. King Ry’s failure to make the 140-pound limit by coming in 3.2 pounds over meant that Haney retained his title. While he suffered his first loss, the result could now be overturned following Garcia’s failed VADA tests for Clomiphene.

The substance is known for increasing muscle mass, burning fat and increasing stamina. Garcia’s team has requested the B sample, as testing will take place on May 22. If the samples test positive, Garcia must prove it was a tainted supplement that caused this. 

Haney’s Next Step

Haney’s stock is low even if the Garcia result is turned into a no-contest. He showed his vulnerabilities, getting hit with the same left hook. Haney vs. Martin is unlikely to appeal to a wider audience. Both are technical fighters rather than front-foot fighters. Eddie Hearn, Haney’s promoter, could explore unifications instead.

Teofimo Lopez has the WBO belt, Isaac Cruz has the WBA belt, and Subriel Matias possesses the IBF. This would require Martin to get step-aside money. However, Martin’s following comments suggest that he wants The Dream to come next. 

“This is the first step for an opportunity that I have been waiting for all my life. I know that I am not going to fail, I know that I am going to be a world champion and I only hope that everything continues on its course to see my dream come true,” Martin said

Hearn On Garcia

The mandatory order means Haney must decide quickly on his next steps, regardless of the Garcia outcome. The Dream has already said he does not want to rematch Garcia. If he can get the loss removed from his record, it will help repair some of the damage to his reputation. That all depends on proving Garcia had taken PEDs intentionally. There is speculation over how long Garcia should get banned if it is proved that he took PEDs intentionally. Hearn has responded by calling for a lifetime ban in the hope this roots out PEDs from boxing.