Devin Haney Dominates Ramirez, While Ryan Garcia Struggles Post-Ostarine Fallout

By Steven X

May 4, 2025

On a weekend filled with high-stakes matchups and renewed rivalries, two of boxing's most talked-about fighters—Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia—returned to the ring under drastically different circumstances and outcomes.

In Times Square at the Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves card on Friday night, Ryan Garcia suffered a significant setback, falling to Rolando “Rolly” Romero in what many considered a major upset. Knocked down in the second round, Garcia appeared far removed from the fighter who stunned the sport last year by defeating Devin Haney—an outcome later ruled a no-contest after Garcia tested positive for the banned substance Ostarine.

Ostarine, a selective androgen receptor modulator (SARM), is commonly used by bodybuilders to aid in muscle growth and recovery. Its emergence in boxing has raised eyebrows, especially after Garcia’s post-Haney test results. The New York State Athletic Commission’s decision to overturn Garcia’s win reinforced concerns about performance-enhancing drugs in the sport and highlighted the need for consistent regulatory vigilance.

Despite the controversy, Garcia’s popularity has not significantly waned. Meanwhile, critics within the boxing community have focused disproportionately on Devin Haney’s tactical approach in the ring, often labeling his style as "running" rather than acknowledging its technical merit. This disparity in perception raises questions about double standards in how fighters are judged—not just for their performances, but also for their conduct outside the ring.

Haney’s return after a year-long layoff came in a dominant performance against former champion Jose Ramirez. Winning nearly every round on the scorecards, Haney showcased superior footwork, a sharp left hook, and clean uppercuts while controlling the pace throughout. Though his jab was less prominent than usual, his right hand found consistent success, and his timing appeared intact.

Ramirez did land several notable shots, including right hands and left hooks, but Haney’s defensive awareness minimized the damage. His ability to absorb those punches and remain composed was a testament to his ring IQ and athleticism. Still, some gaps remain in his game—particularly on the inside, where Haney tends to clinch rather than engage. That element of his repertoire will need refinement if he aims to elevate his status even more among the sport’s elite.

Haney’s victory solidified his place as a top 10 pound-for-pound fighter. But to break into the top five, many believe a showdown with unbeaten welterweight Jaron “Boots” Ennis is inevitable. Haney’s speed, movement, and tactical sharpness could pose significant challenges for Ennis, though the fight would likely be decided by who can control the exchanges on the inside—a space where Ennis thrives and Haney remains unproven.

In the near term, Haney has options. A rematch with Garcia is contractually set for October in Saudi Arabia, but Garcia’s recent loss to Romero has taken the shine off that matchup. With Garcia’s left hook neutralized and his power seemingly ineffective against Romero, questions remain about how much credibility Haney would gain from beating Ryan.

Another viable path for Haney would be to face Romero next or pursue Mario Barrios for his title. Both options could offer meaningful competition without the baggage of controversy that now surrounds Garcia.

As the boxing landscape continues to shift, Haney’s ability to adapt and evolve may be what ultimately separates him from the pack. While Garcia’s future remains uncertain in the aftermath of his loss and suspension, Haney’s disciplined style, ring generalship, and growing résumé suggest a fighter who is not only resilient but still on an upward trajectory.