The three judges gave Haney the winner on points (117-111, 117-111 and 116-112).
This count reflects his accuracy (164 shots hit the target out of 614 given), slightly higher than that of his rival (140 out of 573).
But this close fight did not keep all its promises in terms of spectacle.
There were times when Diaz put a bit of madness in his gloves, such as in the 4th round, during which he rebelled for the first time and in the 7th when he placed two big hooks from the left, nevertheless well cashed. by Haney.
But the latter was firmly planted on his legs and was more surgical in his management of the fight, controlling the situation almost all the time.
Even in the 12th round, when Diaz, knowing he had to try the knockout to turn the situation around, still gave his all with heavy left hooks.
In vain.
Winner of his 27 fights (including 15 before the limit), Haney could then compete against the Australian George Kambosos Jr, holder of the other belts in the category (WBA, IBF, WBO), for a unification of the titles.
© 2021 AFP