Haney successfully defends WBC crown

World Boxing Council undefeated lightweight champion made his second successful defense, with a Convincing victory by unanimous decision in 12 rounds over tough as old boots Cuban Yuriorkis Gamboa, at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood, Florida.

Haney fought for the first time in 52 weeks, which he spent most of the time recovering from a right shoulder surgery and surgery, after a 12-round win over undefeated Alfredo Santiago last November.

At the start of the contest, Haney controlled the offensive, using his long, snappy jab. The height and reach distance hampered Gamboa significantly, considerably, and continually.

Gamboa attacked with his left, hoping to catch Haney with his right, but seldom managed to reach him and land cleanly. Haney controlled the fight from a middle distance with a rapier left jab and hard straight rights, while Gamboa concentrated on evasive action, avoiding punishment whenever he could, largely without engaging, with gloves held high.

Haney was looking for the knockout, but durable Gamboa managed not to go down, taking advantage of his experience. yet his face puffed up as a result of a constant stream of accurate marksmanship. Gamboa weathered considerable punishment.

It became messier with an increasing number of irritable clinches. Gamboa has deducted a point for excessive holding in the eleventh round, after two previous warnings from the Referee, during the fight.

Judge Fernando Barbosa scored 118-109, while Michael Tate and Michael Ross each scored 120-107.

Haney improved his record to 25-0 (16KOs) with the victory, while Gamboa suffered his second loss in a row as he fell to 30-4 (18KOs).

Devin Haney is now confirmed as one of the best fighters in the division, with promising attractive fights beaconing with Teofimo López or Ryan García.