“Email Champ” Perception: One of the most persistent criticisms of Haney is the way he initially became the WBC lightweight champion in 2019. He was elevated to full champion status after Vasiliy Lomachenko was named “Franchise Champion” by the WBC, rather than winning the belt in the ring against a reigning titleholder. This led to the derogatory “email champ” label, with critics arguing he didn’t earn the title the traditional way. Even though Haney went on to become undisputed lightweight champion by defeating George Kambosos Jr. in 2022, the nickname stuck and fueled resentment among fans who felt his early championship was handed to him.
Fighting Style: Haney is a technically proficient boxer with excellent footwork, a sharp jab, and strong defensive skills, often compared to Floyd Mayweather. However, like Mayweather in his later years, Haney’s style is seen by some as “boring” or overly cautious. He relies heavily on outboxing opponents and winning on points rather than seeking knockouts, which he hasn’t achieved since 2019. This lack of finishing power and perceived lack of excitement frustrates fans who prefer more aggressive, action-packed fights, contributing to his unpopularity.
Close Fights and Controversy: Haney’s victories over high-profile opponents like Vasiliy Lomachenko in 2023 have been contentious. Many fans and analysts scored the fight for Lomachenko, believing Haney benefited from a generous decision. This perception of being “gifted” wins, combined with his post-fight confidence (e.g., mocking Lomachenko), rubs some the wrong way, amplifying accusations that he’s overhyped or protected by the boxing establishment.
Bill Haney’s Influence: Haney’s father and trainer, Bill, is a significant factor in his negative perception. Bill is outspoken, brash, and often engages in trash-talking on behalf of his son, which alienates fans. His over-the-top promotion of Devin as the best fighter in the world, even after setbacks, is seen as delusional or annoying by some. For example, after Haney’s loss to Ryan Garcia in April 2024 (later ruled a no-contest due to Garcia’s PED violation), Bill’s vocal defense and excuses further irritated fans who felt the Haney camp couldn’t accept defeat gracefully.
Handling of the Ryan Garcia Loss: Haney’s response to his majority decision loss to Ryan Garcia in 2024 drew significant backlash. He was knocked down three times and visibly outfought, yet he and his team pushed hard to overturn the result after Garcia tested positive for ostarine, a banned substance. While the fight was changed to a no-contest and Garcia was suspended, Haney’s subsequent lawsuit against Garcia for battery, fraud, and breach of contract was viewed by many as a sore loser’s move. Critics argue it damaged his reputation, portraying him as unable to handle adversity, especially given boxing’s culture of resilience.
Personality and Persona: Haney tries to play both the good guy and the villain, which some find inauthentic. His attempts to trash-talk rivals often come off as forced or awkward, lacking the charisma of fighters like Mayweather who successfully embraced the heel role. Additionally, incidents like sucker-punching someone at a carnival and making controversial comments (e.g., racial remarks about Garcia) have painted him as immature or unlikeable to some, despite his clean-cut image as a disciplined, family-oriented Muslim athlete.
Comparisons to Peers: Haney operates in a competitive lightweight and super lightweight landscape alongside stars like Gervonta “Tank” Davis, Teofimo Lopez, and Shakur Stevenson, who either have more knockouts, bigger personalities, or less controversial resumes. Fans often compare Haney unfavorably, claiming he’s less entertaining or hasn’t faced the same level of opposition, even though he’s fought tough contenders like Lomachenko, Kambosos, and Jorge Linares.
Perception of Entitlement: Some fans perceive Haney as entitled, partly due to his privileged upbringing (private school, active father) and his camp’s insistence on high purses or specific fight terms. His decision to take a break after the Garcia fight and hints at pricing himself out of big matchups reinforce this narrative, making him seem more focused on money than legacy.
PUNSH DRUNK BOXING 