Did Lomachenko Lay Out the Blueprint to Beat Haney?

Devin Haney prevailed in his last fight against Vasiliy Lomachenko, but it was closer than expected. With the 35-year-old Lomachenko moving up to 135 pounds and slowing down in the twilight of his career, Haney was a sizable favorite.

But the fight was much closer than it was supposed to be on paper. Lomachenko put the pressure on Haney, was able to work inside and landed power shots throughout the fight.

Ultimately, Haney was able to do enough to get the nod from all three judges, but Lomachenko might have laid out a plan for future opponents. His smart pressure and aggression threw Haney off his game and forced him to work for the win.

Regis Prograis is a natural 140-pounder and power is his calling card. If he can get inside like Lomachenko did then this becomes an interesting fight.

What Will Haney Look Like in the New Weight Class?

It's always interesting the first time a fighter moves into a new weight class. Haney has the skills to control a fight, but he's never really been a slugger. He hasn't knocked anyone out since 2019 and has seven consecutive wins by decision.

The 25-year-old is the kind of fighter that is going to have his eye on continuing to climb the weight division ladder. He held all four belts at lightweight and collecting the titles at 140 pounds could be the next step if he wins this one.

Just how far up in weight Haney can move could depend on how his body responds to coming into the fight a little heavier. Without the draining weight cut he could come into some additional power.

On the other hand, if he hits like a light-fisted 135er at 140, it's going to be hard to continue to move up.

Haney is also curious to see how his punches land on Saturday.

"I want to see how Regis takes my punch," Haney said, per Mike Coppinger of ESPN. "I think Regis will be shocked [by my power]. I think the world will be shocked. ... I'm preparing for Regis to be able to take my punches and me to keep hitting him."

Regardless of whether Haney wins, this is a storyline worth monitoring.