‘New and improved version’: Haney expects to show refined skills against Ramirez

Devin Haney says he’ll show he’s now a better fighter in upcoming match with Jose Ramirez.

Devin Haney will also be appearing on the May 2 ‘Fatal Fury’ card in a fight against Jose Ramirez. Both Haney and Ramirez were on hand for the press event that formally announced their fight and spoke to the public about the matchup along with Haney’s plans to rematch Ryan Garcia. Here are some excerpts from both fighters.

Michael Owens

Haney on being quiet and reserved as of late

“I’m just excited to be back in boxing, under the lights. I’m really just focused right now. I’ve got tunnel vision.”

On whether he’s content with the fight against Ramirez before getting a rematch with Garcia

“Of course the big fight is Ryan Garcia, but I cannot look past Jose Ramirez. I know that he is a tough competitor. I know that he is coming to win. To get to the Ryan fight, first we’ve got to beat Jose Ramirez, and that’s what I’m here to do.”

On if he’ll be an improved version of himself going forward

“Yes, a better version. I’ve been in the gym, working quietly behind the scenes ever since the Ryan fight. Just getting better, perfecting my craft. You guys are going to see an even better, new and improved version of Devin Haney.”

On Garcia’s punishment from the commission for his positive drug test

“That’s not for me to determine right now. My main focus is Jose Ramirez and then lining it back up with Ryan Garcia. Whatever his punishment, that’s what it was, and I’m going to look to punish him in the ring.”

On what fans can expect to see on May 2

“Like I said, even better than I was before. Like I said, I’m a new and improved version of myself.”

Michael Owens

Ramirez on what he needs to do to beat Haney

“People forget I’m a 2012 Olympian… I’m gonna go out there on May 2 and do what I have to do. I know how much this fight means to me, to the team, and to my family. I know when I make my way to 147, I’m going to be a lot stronger and a lot faster. I’m healthier, and I’m feeling rejuvenated. I’m looking forward to making a statement on May 2nd.”

On whether Haney will be a tougher opponent than Barboza

“We’ll see. He’s a different opponent, so you can’t really ask that. Going back to old times, a fighter used to lose to one fighter, then beat the other fighter. You can’t say that about boxing. It’s a different division with a different Jose Ramirez.

On whether he plans to test Haney’s chin

“Of course I’m going to test the chin. That’s my job. Even if he was 31-0 with 31 knockouts, it’s still my job to test his chin.”

On how he predicts the fight will play out

“I just can’t wait for May 2. I’m going to make a statement, and that’s all I’m going to do. I’m focused on the fight, that’s it.”

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