Undisputed lightweight champion Devin Haney has been hit with his biggest punch yet outside of the ring. The Bay Area native was reportedly arrested and booked on a felony charge of carrying a concealed weapon in a vehicle on Thursday morning. Shortly thereafter, he was reportedly released on $35,000 bail.
“It’s a misunderstanding that will be solved when Devin goes to court,” Haney’s father, Bill, told Mike Coppinger of ESPN.
“It’s unfortunate that he was arrested with his armed licensed security, and I’m confident things are going to be worked out.”
News of Haney’s arrest arrives just a few hours after he exchanged words with lineal super lightweight champion Teofimo Lopez. Weeks after claiming that he would retire from the sport of boxing, Lopez informed the World Boxing Organization that he would return to the ring and defend his title.
“Yo, Devin Haney! Since you were so quick to hump in the mix for my WBO championship belt, let’s make the fight happen, so the world can see who is about that action. And no, you will not be on the A-side. I hold the king title of the division as well. So, don’t run away,” Lopez tweeted.
“Let’s do it,” Haney swiftly replied.
It is unclear when and if an agreement will be reached for the two to fight. In the meantime, the undisputed lightweight champion will deal with his legal battle. He is expected to return to court on August 3 in Los Angeles.
