Thus far, the upcoming clash between Devin Haney and Vasiliy Lomachenko has been built up as a war of the minds.

For the better part of the past half-decade, both fighters have established themselves as in-ring savants. While they’ve flaunted their power at times, by and large, neither man is known as a KO artist. Instead, following years of honing their craft, the pair have been labeled as master boxers.

Those sentiments, though mostly shared by the boxing public, doesn't give a clear indication as to what Haney can expect come May 20th. On the night, the 24-year-old will attempt to defend his undisputed lightweight throne against the Ukrainian in what most view as a battle of pure skills. But while many are expecting a tactical bout filled with feints, awe-inspiring angles, and subtle foot movement, Haney (29-0, 15 KOs) is under the impression that Lomachenko will take a different approach to their clash.

“A dirty fight,” said Haney to a group of reporters when asked what he expects come fight night. “He is a dirty fighter.”

In spite of his scratching criticism, Haney is well aware that his upcoming foe brings much more to the table than underhanded-gimmicks. 

Not too long ago, Lomachenko (17-2, 11 KOs) stood not only atop the lightweight division as a unified champion but according to most, he was also viewed as the best pound-for-pound fighter in the sport.

Nevertheless, ostensibly at the peak of his powers, Lomachenko was violently pushed off his high horse in 2020 against Teofimo Lopez. Since then, Haney ultimately maneuvered and positioned himself to snag those very titles Lomachenko once held.  

Now, with the tables turned, Haney is frabjous over his recent accomplishment. Although his ever-growing frame forces him to struggle on the scales, Haney couldn't pass up on the opportunity to prove that he's always been the much better fighter.

Ultimately, Haney's confidence, while in full bloom, won't distract him from the vagarious and sludgy tricks that Lomachenko has up his sleeves.

“He has skills, don't get me wrong but he relies a lot on dirty tactics. Stop training for that dirty sh!t. Give me a fair fight. I know you wanna fight dirty but it won’t work.”