Poker Player Ryan Garcia Upsets Heavily Favored Devin Haney in What Should Have Been a Title Fight

Key Takeaways

• Ryan Garcia, known for his poker antics, shocked the boxing world by defeating Devin Haney.
• The fight, lacking a title due to Garcia's weigh-in overage, ended in a majority decision.
• Garcia's victory raises questions about his multifaceted career and controversial views.

In a twist that reads more like a script from a Hollywood underdog story, Ryan Garcia, a name familiar to those who follow the high-stakes poker scene, delivered a stunning performance in the boxing ring against Devin Haney. The bout, which took place on a vibrant Saturday night at Brooklyn's Barclays Center, had all the drama of a championship fight, minus the title on the line due to a weigh-in controversy.

Garcia, stepping into the ring with odds heavily stacked against him, displayed a tenacity that left fans and critics alike in awe. The match saw Garcia sending Haney to the mat three times, a feat that not only showcased his power but also his strategic prowess — qualities that poker enthusiasts have seen him display on the felt, albeit with mixed results.

Despite the lack of a title at stake, due to Garcia tipping the scales at 143.2 pounds — over the welterweight limit — the fight lost none of its luster. Both fighters proceeded with an intensity that belied the absence of a belt, engaging in a clash that had fans on their feet and shouting.

The judges' scores, 114-110 and 115-109 in favor of Garcia, with one judge scoring it a draw at 112-112, sparked debates among boxing aficionados. The majority decision victory marked a significant milestone in Garcia's boxing record, now standing impressively at 25-1 with 20 knockouts, while handing Haney his first professional defeat.

Garcia's upset over Haney isn't just a testament to his athletic versatility but also shines a light on his complex persona. A figure of controversy, Garcia has made headlines not only for his prowess in poker and boxing but also for his outspoken views on social media. His commentary on what he perceives as societal ills has stirred debates far beyond the realms of sports and gaming.

His participation in the 2023 World Series of Poker (WSOP) and appearances on Hustler Casino Live, where he's reportedly down over $80,000, speak to a man unafraid of taking risks, whether at the card table or in the ring. His approach to both pursuits — marked by boldness and a flair for the dramatic — has earned him a following that spans diverse interests.

As Ryan Garcia navigates the aftermath of his victory and the controversies that surround him, one thing is clear: his ability to surprise, challenge, and engage audiences, whether through a pair of boxing gloves or a deck of cards, remains unparalleled. The question now is, what's next for this multifaceted competitor? Whether it's defending his statements, stepping back into the ring, or sitting down at the poker table, Garcia is sure to capture the public's attention.

In the world of sports and entertainment, Garcia's recent victory serves as a reminder of the unpredictability of competition and the compelling stories that emerge when individuals defy the odds. As the dust settles on this not-quite-title fight, the boxing and poker communities alike are left to ponder the intriguing intersections of skill, personality, and controversy that define Ryan Garcia's public persona.