Ryan Garcia and Devin Haney trade insults over New York venue dispute

Boxing rivals Devin Haney and Ryan Garcia have been at loggerheads on social media over a venue dispute ahead of their April 20 fight.

Haney will put his WBC super-lightweight world title on the line against his long time rival, as they meet for the first time in the professional ranks.

The pair fought six times as amateurs, winning three fights each, with Garcia dubbing their highly anticipated fight as “Game 7” as they bid to earn the bragging rights over one another.

New York venue causes controversy

It was announced this week that the fight would be taking place at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

However, it was initially thought the bout would take place in Las Vegas and that sentiment was shared by Garcia, who took to social media to express his wish for the fight to take place on the Nevada strip.

“This is an MGM Vegas fight, doing everything we can to bring this fight to Vegas and giving this fight what it deserves,” Garcia wrote on X.

“This decision has nothing to do with NYC and everything to do with business and what I believe is the best move for my career.”

However, Haney took issue with Garcia’s view and suggested his rival was already “planning his escape” from the fight.

But Garcia fired back: “Why are you trying to paint that picture to the public, towards the guy who is making you more money in your life and in your entire career – sad to see.”

Haney then explained why the fight won’t be happening in Vegas, as he added: “The reason the fight is not happening in Vegas is because they don’t want to affect Canelo ticket sales.”

The build-up to the mega fight was already expected to be full of spice and two months out, the venue debacle has only added to the intrigue.