In a stunning decision, Devin Haney remained unbeaten and retained his lightweight titles with a victory over Vasiliy Lomachenko. The event aired live on ESPN+ pay-per-view from MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas.
Devin Haney Retains, Turns Back Vasiliy Lomachenko
Devin Haney entered as a heavy favorite to remain unbeaten and retain his lightweight titles. But as his bout with Vasiliy Lomachenko progressed, many believed that to be in jeopardy.
Lomachenko constantly thwarted the offensive attacks of Haney, even landing some power shots during the middle portion of the 12-round battle.
When it was all said and done, most believed Lomachenko had done enough to walk out of MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas with the WBA, WBC, IBF, WBO and The Ring titles.
But the judges disagreed.
Haney was awarded a decision victory on all three scorecards, improving to 30-0 in his career. The loss dropped Lomachenko to 17-3.
“He’s a crafty fighter,” Haney said. “He turns it up in the championship rounds. He”s a great fighter.”
Haney previously unified the titles with a victory over George Kamboso Jr. last June.
“Before I think he was a little better, but right now, he’s a tough fighter, a good fighter,” Lomachenko said. “But not a pound-for-pound fighter.”
Oscar Valdez Gets Back On Track
Oscar Valdez picked up a decision victory over Adam Lopez in the co-main event. With the win, Valdez moved one step closer to competing for gold again.
A former WBC super featherweight champion, Valdez got back on track following a loss last year to Shakur Stevenson for those belts. That was his first and only defeat in 32 pro bouts.
Raymond Muratalla stopped Jeremiah Nakathila in the main card opener. With the second round TKO victory, he claimed the vacant NABF and WBO global lightweight belts.
Also on the card, Junto Nakatani won the vacant WBO super flyweight title with a 12th round knockout of Andrew Moloney. The 25-year-old from Japan remained unbeaten, pushing his record to 25-0. He is also the WBO junior-bantamweight champion.
Nico Ali Walsh battled Danny Rosenberger to a split draw. He is the grandson of former boxing heavyweight champion, the legendary Muhammad Ali.
