Haney v Linares betting tips: Third defence the toughest for Haney

Preview and odds for lightweight showdown

Devin Haney aims to prove he deserves to be thought of as one of the best lightweight fighters in the world with victory over former three-weight world champion Jorge Linares in Las Vegas this weekend.

Many were underwhelmed by the selection of Linares as opponent, mainly because it is felt the 35-year-old’s best days are behind him, but Haney, who is overwhelming favourite at 1/12 to prevail in terms of Haney v Linares betting tips, thinks he is in for a stiff test.

Haney will be making the third defence of his WBC title on Saturday night at the Michelob Ultra Arena, having defeated Alfredo Santiago and Yuriorkis Gamboa, and this is arguably the toughest test of his career.

“I am expecting a firefight and I can’t wait,” said Haney (25-0, 15KOs), who is 15/8 to earn a decision and 4/7 to win by knockout, stoppage or disqualification.

“We don’t know what Jorge will turn up, but I am ready for anything, and I can’t wait to show it. Jorge brings so much to the table. Speed, power, ring IQ, experience against the best of the best.

“I think he’s the type of opponent that will bring the best out of me, make me bring out my A-game, take it to the next level, the elite level.

“People think he will have success, some think he will even win the fight, and that’s why it will show that I am elite and one of the best, if not the best, in the world.”

Linares relying on experience

Linares (47-5, 29KOs) has beaten two unheralded opponents since a shock first-round knockout loss to Pablo Cesar Cano in January 2019.