The weather was somewhat chilly, but WBC lightweight world champion Devin “The Dream” Haney received a surprisingly warm reception from the Australian fans at Thursday’s open workout at Melbourne’s Federation Square.
Haney (27-0, 15 KOs) will meet Australia’s unified lightweight world champion George Kambosos Jr. (20-0, 10 KOs) Sunday afternoon (Saturday evening U.S. time) for the undisputed title in front of 50,000-plus fans at Marvel Stadium.
Despite the plethora of Australian and Greek flags — Kambosos is of Greek descent — the local fans showed respect for the 23-year-old American star, who has been in Melbourne for the better part of two weeks. Kambosos entered the ring to raucous cheers, the Australian and Greek flags draped over his shoulders.
“Born ready,” Kambosos said, as he proceeded to shadow box and soak in the long-awaited homecoming. Kambosos, who hails from Sydney, has not boxed at home since 2017. Since then, he has won fights in America, Malaysia, England and Greece, a Cinderella run that culminated in last November’s stunning upset over Teofimo Lopez.
Why is Haney referred to as a star? That’s ridiculous. He has accomplished almost nothing in the pro ranks yet and has a boring style. Kambosos has accomplished more but he is no star neither. Sugar Ray Leonard, Tommy Hearns, pernell Whittaker, Oscar De la Hoya, Felix Trinidad, Rocky Marciano, Sugar Ray Robinson, Marvelous Marvin, Joe Louis, Roberto Duran. I don’t think anyone would confuse Haney for any of these guys. People are so fast nowadays to throw undeserving accolades on people. Beat 3 good fighters then get back to me.
Your naming legends and hall of famers. Haney is a star attraction in todays Boxing. The article didnt call him a superstar or legend so “cool your jets”. You would have to be somebody who is looking for something silly to nitpick. Did Haney upset your favorite guy? Loma is that you?
This is ridiculous!
I disagree. Haney is an attraction, not a star attraction. This is why its being shown on ESPN and not a ppv. Im not complaining cuz the fight is free and now he’ll get more people watching it.but i dont think Devin is PPV material yet.
There goes NJ Boxing getting his panties all ruffled up! He was only stating that Haney hasn’t beaten anyone of note and that he’s a boring fighter. I agree, Haney has some neat skills but he’s boring and just barely above mediocre so please settle down and chill out sunshine…
Haney easy in a boxing clinic. Come on guys, George is a beer drinking buddy.
I look for Kambosos to score an early knockdown and win by unanimous decision. Haney is good but he’s not great. Kambosos has the speed, heart, and determination to outwork Haney and overcome any physical disadvantages. 115-112, 115-112, and 114-113.
Ok I am confused. Is the fight gonna be late night in the united states or prime time like at 5pm pacific???
Dumb, the other day I posted Saturday 8:00 pm Easter Time (like New York) starts main card, 11pm planned ring entrance. If you are in the west coast (ie California)it’s gonna be earlier.
I’m pretty sure it’s set up over here so you get it the same time as you would a main event over there on the Saturday night.
Kambosos’ over exuberant mannerisms during pre fight press conferences remind me of fellow countryman Steve Irwin. While entertaining at first, it’s wearing a bit thin now.
Steve Irwin was defeated by a sting Ray. I hope that’s not an omen for George.
I am not surprised about Haney receiving a warm welcome from Australian folks.
Even as a regular everyday “Joe,” I received common courtesy from Australian folks.
Haney should be able squeak out a decision with his length. But if Kambosos is aggressive and throws a lot of punches I think the he will get the nod in a split decision with this being in Australia.
I agree, Haney’s speed and outside skills can rack up points in the early rounds. Haney’s later movement will pose problems for Kambosos. Kambosos will need to cut the ring off early to prevent Haney from getting into a rhythm as the fight progresses. Kambosos moves backwards great, but not so laterally as he tends to plant his feet flat to load up on his punches. I will go out on a stretched limb. Haney TKO using the right hand and speed. Yes, I will admit if I am wrong. No problem.
haney is overrated his awkward fighter