Michel Rivera calls out Devin Haney: ‘I know I can beat him’

Michel Rivera, ranked No. 14 by both the WBC and IBF, has his sights set on WBC junior welterweight champion-in-recess Devin Haney.

Haney, 25, holds a 31-0 (15 KOs) record and was involved in a controversial no-contest with Ryan Garcia. Initially ruled a loss, the result was overturned after Garcia tested positive for the banned substance ostarine. Alberto Puello, who was recognized as the WBC titleholder in June, now holds the belt.

Rivera, 26-1 (14 KOs), from the Dominican Republic, believes he is the best option for Haney. 

“I’m always available for Haney,” Rivera told BoxingScene. “They know me, and they know what I bring. I know I can beat him. I can do better than Ryan Garcia. His father knows me well. I’m confident this is the fight that should happen.”

In March, Rivera signed a long-term promotional deal with Salita Promotions. He’s on a two-fight win streak since his December 2022 loss to Frank Martin. Rivera earned a unanimous decision victory over former titleholder Sergey Lipinets in November 2023, followed by a split-decision win against Hugo Alberto Roldan in July.

“I am here, and I’m calling him out,” Rivera said. “I need this fight. I want it.”

Rivera also pointed out that Haney can’t target a rematch with Garcia, as Garcia is currently suspended. Asked what message he’d send to Haney, Rivera didn’t hesitate: “I want to be a world champion, and I’m a better fighter than him. I’ve built my name through my skills, not just promotion. Everybody knows me because I fight pretty good. I’ll beat him anytime and anywhere.”

Lucas Ketelle is a proud member of the Boxing Writers Association of America and author of “Inside The Ropes of Boxing” (available on Amazon). Contact him on X @LukieBoxing.