Saturday May 20, 2023 we have another big fight on the boxing docket. This time the fight will determine 135 lb. supremacy. Standing on one side you have former pound-for-pound king Vasily Lomachenko (17-2, 11KO’s), across from him you have the undisputed lightweight champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (29-0, 15KO’s).

Lomachenko was last in action in October of 2022 picking up a unanimous decision win over Jamaine Ortiz. Although he was victorious, he did not look like the fighter once dubbed “No Mas Chenko”. Some leeway can be given however, as he did step away from the ring to fight for his home country of Ukraine in the war against Russia. Haney himself was also last in action last October where he won a lopsided unanimous decision against George Kambosos Jr. in a rematch for the undisputed lightweight crown.

Looking at this fight, I cannot get an image out of my head. When Devin Haney entered the ring after Lomachenko defeated Ortiz, I was shocked at just how much bigger Devin Haney was. The height and weight advantage was clear as day.  Of the two fighters, I do feel Lomachenko as the more skilled, but Devin is no slouch in that regard. He has a great jab, he has elite speed, and very good defense. Did I mention how much bigger he will be on fight night? To win on Saturday, Loma is going to have to start fast to make Devin uncomfortable, which will allow him to utilize his angles, and employ his onslaught offense he is famous for. While Devin does not possess one punch KO power, I believe his jab, size, and speed will be enough to keep the much smaller Lomachekno at bay.

My Pick: Devin “The Dream: Haney by UD

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