By David Robinett

In the main event of World Fighting Championship (WFC) 73 at the Agua Caliente Casino Resort in Rancho Mirage, California, 18-year old Devin Haney continued his run as an undefeated blue-chip prospect, dispatching game but overmatched Miguel Aispuro by referee stoppage at 1:51 of the fifth round in a scheduled eight-round super lightweight bout.

Haney (16-0, 11 KOs) was a standout in the United States amateur program who missed his chance at the 2016 Summer Olympics due to his young age, winning amateur championships at lightweight and junior welterweight before turning pro. The pedigree was evident early on, as Haney fought with the confidence of someone substantially more skilled than his opponent. Haney relied early on his fast hands, snapping his left jab and firing out his right hand before Aispuro could react. Aispuro (8-6, 6 KOs), who came into this fight having only beaten two fighters with wins on their record, nevertheless gave a good account of himself, landing solid body shots throughout rounds three and four as Haney’s defense allowed some openings while he was showing off and throwing punches from a variety of angles.

Aispuro’s efforts were in vain though, as Haney stepped on the gas as the fight progressed and eventually overwhelmed a tiring Aispuro with his speed and angles. The end came with Haney trapping Aispuro along the ropes and landing a flurry of left and right hooks before referee Edward Hernandez stepped in to end the mismatch. It all amounted to an impressive performance by Haney, although considering the number of flush left and right hooks that Haney landed late that failed to drop Aispuro, what Haney may not have is one-punch power, which could land him in trouble when he faces a more highly skilled, aggressive fighter. But that’s a worry for another day for Haney and his team as the impressive youngster will undoubtedly step up his competition in the months ahead.