“Devin Haney beats Rolly Romero by decision,” Algieri said to BoxingScene. “Haney has the superior jab, better distance management, and overall ring IQ to control the fight from the outside.”
Algieri also noted that Romero’s strength and explosiveness would present real danger if the fight moves into close exchanges. The WBA champion has shown an ability to make inside fighting uncomfortable for opponents, and Algieri pointed out that Romero’s judo background contributes to his strength in clinches and short-range situations.
“Rolly’s got that explosive left hook, he’s strong on the inside, and his judo background helps him in clinches and making it messy up close,” Algieri said.
According to Algieri, Haney’s main priority would be avoiding those exchanges and keeping the fight at the end of his jab, where his timing and reactions are more effective.
“If Haney gets caught in those exchanges or lets it turn into a phone booth fight, Rolly could make it dangerous with power shots,” Algieri said.
Even with that threat, Algieri expects Haney’s patience and footwork to guide the fight toward a controlled decision. The unbeaten WBO welterweight champion has relied heavily on his jab and range management throughout his career, tools Algieri believes would allow him to manage Romero’s power over twelve rounds.
“But Devin is smart enough to stay on the end of the jab, use footwork to dictate range, and avoid those exchanges,” Algieri said. “That’s why I see him winning a tactical decision, probably not the most exciting fight.”
Haney and Romero have recently been linked to discussions about a welterweight unification fight, which would bring together Haney’s technical approach with Romero’s aggressive power if negotiations between their teams move forward.
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