The lightweight division is arguably boxing’s best division right now. And WBC champion, Devin Haney, is in the thick of it. The undefeated American has shown his class in the ring and has become a champion at 22. However, ‘The Dream’ Devin Haney will now test his skills against the experience of Jorge Linares.

Linares goes into the bout as the underdog. However, as a former champion, the Venezuelan has bags of experience. Haney, on the other hand, will have to prove that he belongs at the top of the division. So let’s inspect and see who comes out on top.

Devin Haney vs. Jorge Linares: Analysis

Haney comes into the bout with an unbeaten record. In his last fight, he secured an underwhelming victory over Yuriorkis Gamboa. ‘The Dream’ is a technician in the ring and is an expert at outboxing his opponents. He prefers to fight on the outside rather than be the aggressor. However, once he senses an opportunity, Haney can close the show.

Linares has had a fantastic career and enters the ring with heaps of experience. At 35, and with more than double the professional bouts than Haney, Linares will not be a pushover. Although he lost his world titles, he is on a two-fight win streak. Moreover, he can fight on the inside and also outbox his opponents. However, his last fight was more than a year ago.

In terms of their attributes and qualities, it is a tight call between the two fighters. Both stand at 5’8″, but Devin Haney has a slight reach advantage over Jorge Linares. In terms of power, speed, and movement, both fighters match up fairly similarly. In addition, Linares’ experience cancels out Haney’s age advantage.

READ MORE: Is Devin Haney a Champion? Which Belt Has He Won?

Our prediction for the Devin Haney and Jorge Linares bout

After taking into consideration all the different aspects, we think Jorge Linares will shock the world and beat Devin Haney. The former champion will use his experience to counter any surprises ‘The Dream’ tries to throw at him. We predict a Linares will take home a close split decision.

Linares has hurt Vasyl Lomachenko in the past. This is a clear sign of his speed and power. Furthermore, we saw how Haney struggled with Gamboa when he used his experience. Therefore, we’re going for an upset, as we think Linares will use his experience and incorporate the very thing that may trouble Haney.

However, like with any other fight, one punch can change the scenario. Also, Haney could show his defensive skill and stamp his authority on the fight.

What do you make of this fight? Who do you think will come out on top between Devin Haney and Jorge Linares?

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