Gary Russell Jr: Devin Haney beats Tank Davis via movement

Former featherweight titlist Gary Russell Jr believes Devin Haney would outbox Gervonta Davis in a potential showdown, arguing that Haney's elusive style neutralizes Davis's power.

Russell Jr told Fight Hub TV that Haney's greatest liability doubles as his best weapon against hard-hitting opponents. "His flaw is his biggest strength," Russell Jr said, per Bad Left Hook. "He's not going to sit there and try to fight you, he going to get the f—k out the way." Russell Jr went on to describe Haney's approach as disciplined movement and consistent range management, predicting Davis would struggle to land clean against an opponent unwilling to plant his feet.

Why Davis struggles against pure boxers

Russell Jr characterized Davis as a flat-footed puncher who needs to set himself before releasing power shots. He explained that lateral movement and steady footwork create problems for Davis, who relies on opponents standing in front of him. Russell Jr extended the same logic to Shakur Stevenson, saying Stevenson would beat Davis in a similarly methodical performance, though he acknowledged the fight would be difficult to watch. "It's be boring as hell," he said, "but he's going to put that stick on Tank."

On a prospective Haney-Stevenson fight, Russell Jr said both boxers would struggle to impose their rhythm. He gave Stevenson the tougher assignment due to his shorter reach, noting Stevenson would need to step inside Haney's longer jab to connect, a task complicated by Stevenson's preference for fighting off the back foot. Russell Jr described the bout as a chess match that would force both men out of their comfort zones.

Haney has not fought since his controversial decision win over Ryan Garcia last April. Davis is expected to return later this year, though no opponent has been finalized.

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• Bad Left Hook — ‘His flaw is his biggest strength’: Gary Russell Jr explains why Devin Haney has edge over Tank Davis