Devin Haney Edges Controversial Decision Over Vasiliy Lomachenko

Timothy James

May 21, 2023

Devin Haney defeats Vasiliy Lomachenko via unanimous decision.

Devin Haney vs. Vasiliy Lomachenko was an instant classic – two of the best lightweight boxers in the world going toe-to-toe for twelve rounds. When the final bell rang, fans and analysts believed Lomachenko had done enough to reclaim championship status – but the judges scored it the other way.

The judges scored the bout 115-113, 116-112, and 115-113 to declare Haney “and still” undisputed lightweight champion of boxing – much to the chagrin of the crowd. The boos rang out through the MGM Grand Arena, but there’s no denying that Haney and Lomachenko put on a spectacle – the highest level of boxing.

The judges may have been convinced by Haney’s output – while the crowd thought Lomachenko landed the bigger shots. Both men had their moments in the back-and-forth technical war.

Both men left it all on the line for the Las Vegas crowd, and there’s already clamoring for a rematch down the line.

Haney gave his due to Lomachenko after the fight despite some tension during the build-up to the bout. After 12 rounds, Haney had nothing but respect for the Ukranian warrior. “I’ve just got to tip my hat off, he’s a great fighter,” Haney stated after the fight.

While there was talk of Lomachenko being too old to reclaim his former glory, the footwork wizard looked vintage tonight. At thirty-five years old, Loma looked as good as ever in one of boxing’s most promising stars. Lomachenko lost the fight but seems keen to step back in the ring, saying “see you next time” after the fight.

Whether a rematch between Haney and Lomachenko happens remains to be seen. But Shakur Stevenson stepped into the ring to face off with Haney. When Haney told him “I’m number one,” Stevenson gave a candid response – “for now!”