Devin Haney’s Purse History Undercuts His Defense

Devin Haney reached for his past sacrifices after facing criticism over the direction of his career. Jimmy Kambosos and the abandoned Sandor Martin defense make that explanation far less convincing.

Published: Monday, 21 September 2026 at 2:35 AM
Devin Haney’s Purse History Undercuts His Defense
Key Things to Know
  • Devin Haney defended his career trajectory by citing past financial sacrifices made to fight George Kambosos Jr.
  • Jimmy Kambosos disputed Haney's claim, stating Haney simply accepted terms previously offered to Vasiliy Lomachenko.
  • Haney avoided a mandatory WBC light welterweight title defense against Sandor Martin by requesting Champion in Recess status.
The Story in 60 Seconds

Devin Haney defended his career choices on social media by highlighting his past sacrifices, including accepting less money to fight George Kambosos Jr. twice in Australia. However, Jimmy Kambosos, George Jr.’s father, challenged this narrative. He stated that Haney simply agreed to the same financial package that had originally been negotiated for Vasiliy Lomachenko before Lomachenko remained in Ukraine.

Haney's defense is further complicated by his decision to avoid a mandatory WBC light welterweight title defense against Sandor Martin. Top Rank submitted an unopposed $2.42 million purse bid for the fight, which would have guaranteed Haney approximately $1.52 million. Instead, Haney requested "Champion in Recess" status, allowing Alberto Puello to be elevated and avoiding the matchup.

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