Devin Haney took part in a boxing masterclass against George Cambosos Jr. in a unanimous decision against the Australians at Marvel Stadium.
The 23-year-old became the new WBO, WBA, IBF, The Ring and WBC champion after scoring 116-112, 118-110 and 118-110 in a three-judge battle.
Despite the bad blood between the two camps in the lead-up and shortly after the fight, Cambosos was gracious in the defeat, personally handing the belts over to his American opponent.
As happened: Haney claims that Cambosos won by a unanimous decision against Jr.
Read more: The boxing beast sprays the legend after the epic knockout
Read more: Suatek broke Serena’s mark with the Roland-Garros title
“I take off my hat for him because he’s a real fighter. I respect anyone who sets foot in the ring,” Haney said after his victory.
“It simply came to our notice then.
“I want to thank George Cambosos and all the Australians for coming out. Thanks to George for giving me a shot. These so-called many champions, they won’t give me my shots, but George is a real champion and he gave me my shots, so thank you for that. . “
After the defeat, Cambosos credited Hani, saying he wanted to avoid what Teofimo Lopez did after winning his own title last year.
“It’s amazing for the sport, amazing for this country,” said the defeated Aussie.
“I’m going to give him full respect after his victory, and we’ll do it again. I’m not going to waste his moment. I had my moment last November and it’s ruined.
“He just boxed in his game. I’m going to change some things and bring him back later this year. I took the risk, I’ll fight from the best. Many didn’t want to fight him, but I gave him a shot.”
Haney was overwhelmed by the 11th-hour arrival of her father, Bill, who landed in Australia less than 24 hours before her son’s big fight.
“It’s a dream come true,” Haney said of his father’s presence.
“I was going through it because my dad wasn’t here because it was a big moment for us. I thank God we got it done together.”
Haney was able to lead the fight early with his powerful left jab and admitted that he was happy to be able to play maintenance in the final stages of the fight as the Australians chased him to the knockout stage.
“I was comfortable, I just stuck to the game plan,” he said.
“I removed the last round because I knew I was comfortable ahead. I did a good smart fight. I disabled him from his best things.”
The two fighters may meet again later this year to sign a two-war deal.
To get a daily dose of the best breaking news and exclusive content from the Wide World of Sports, click here to subscribe to our newsletter!
