Devin ‘The Dream’ Haney Continues to Move Career Forward After TKO Over Mason Menard

Devin Haney defeated Mason Menard on May 11 (Photo: Stephane Trapp – SHOWTIME)

By Chris Robinson

It was hard for me to not take serious notice when young Devin Haney made his professional debut in December of 2015. A top amateur fighting out of Las Vegas in 2010, I recall being introduced to Haney by Zab Judah inside of the then-H.I.T. Factory Gym. Judah, the former two-division world champion from Brooklyn, insisted that I interview Haney that summer day.

Haney was just 10 years old at the time, but you just got the sense that he was working with something special, even back then. Haney’s demeanor was very low key and he always seemed to be doing more talking inside of the ring than out. It was refreshing to see someone so young and talented yet still grounded.

And in the wake of his 19th professional victory earlier this month, as he stopped veteran Mason Menard via 9th round TKO, Haney is really beginning to open up some eyes at just 19 years old. Fighting inside of the 2300 Arena in Philadelphia on SHOWTIME’s ShoBox: The New Generation series, Haney showed off his arsenal of skills and ability.

Haney (19-0, 13 KO’s) is regarded as one of the top prospects in the sport and his lightweight clash with Menard (33-3, 24 KO’s) was another step in the right direction for him. From the opening bell Haney took initiative and didn’t let up until Menard’s corner had seen enough following the ninth round.

“I feel like I put on a performance,” said Haney afterwards. “I was relaxed and did my job. I’m definitely the next superstar. There’s only bigger and better things from here on out. I work very hard. I went in and put on a good performance against a guy that people said could knock me out or hurt me.”

I’ve been fortunate enough to witness Haney’s training sessions over the years and he has put in some great work in Las Vegas and other places on the West Coast, especially in sparring a myriad of prospects, champions, and contenders. At just 19 years old, he is really just getting started with everything.

Check below for more images of Haney’s latest triumph.