
via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 09: Devin Haney celebrates his victory over Rafael Vazquez in their super featherweight fight on April 9, 2016 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)

via Getty
LAS VEGAS, NEVADA – APRIL 09: Devin Haney celebrates his victory over Rafael Vazquez in their super featherweight fight on April 9, 2016 at MGM Grand Garden Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Christian Petersen/Getty Images)
When a right hook meets a wrong, the narrative can take an unexpected turn. Boxing’s darling and reigning undisputed lightweight champion, Devin Haney, found himself in controversy before his anticipated face-off against Vasyl Lomachenko. The much-talked-about pre-fight altercation led to an astounding $400,000 fine levied against Haney, causing a buzz in the world of boxing.
However, in a fascinating twist to this tale, the fallout from this incident has transpired into a surprising revelation. A transformative boxing match with the power to reshape society and transcend beyond the ring. It all starts with an intriguing tweet that Haney broadcasted to the world, hinting at an unexpected direction he’s taken. Just what did Haney say, and why has it struck a chord with fans and critics alike?
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Devin Haney decides to give it away!
In the aftermath of the highly publicized fine, ESPN Ringside shared a tweet from Devin Haney that sent ripples through the boxing community and beyond. The tweet read: “Oh & Thank You to the Nevada Commission for giving back majority of my 400k back… I will donate some of it towards Ukraine.” Haney’s tweet not only confirmed the return of a substantial portion of his withheld fight purse but also announced a commendable act of generosity.
Devin Haney is donating a part of his withheld fight purse to Ukraine 🇺🇦 pic.twitter.com/kq03wVTPii
— ESPN Ringside (@ESPNRingside) July 5, 2023
The mere sight of Haney expressing gratitude to the Nevada Commission, the very authority that had initially fined him, was intriguing to many. However, it was the latter part of the tweet that really turned heads. Despite the tumultuous buildup to his fight with Lomachenko, Haney’s resolve to support the struggling people of Ukraine exhibited an act of sportsmanship that extends beyond the boundaries of the boxing ring.
A fan’s remark spurs a notable response from Haney
In an interesting turn of events, a fan took to Twitter to question Haney’s actions. The fan, seemingly puzzled by Haney’s decision to aid Ukraine, tweeted: “Why not give it back to your community what has Ukraine ever done for you @Realdevinhaney ?? Exactly why I can’t fwu.”
Haney, known for his quick jabs in the ring, demonstrated his deftness in swiftly addressing criticism as well. He responded, “Rather u fw me or not.. a Ukrainian & I broke bread while his country was at War. & they gave him an exempt to come fight.”
Rather u fw me or not.. a Ukrainian & I broke break while his country was at War. & they gave him a exempt to come fight. https://t.co/bSatIZVo2r
— Devin Haney (@Realdevinhaney) July 5, 2023
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Haney’s reply encapsulates the spirit of sportsmanship in a profound way. Beyond nationalities and across the political turmoil, his words echo the mutual respect shared among athletes. It underscores the fact that their rivalry is confined to the ring. Outside of it, they stand together as individuals who comprehend the complexities of their profession and the world they inhabit.
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In the aftermath of this episode, the conversation around Devin Haney has shifted from his withheld fight purse to his fine character. And as we reflect on this saga, it begs the question – How do you perceive an athlete’s responsibility towards societal issues? Does this act by Haney change your perception of the roles and influences athletes can have beyond their respective sports?
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