"Greatest troll job ever," "Poetic comedy" - UFC and boxing worlds unite in praise as Ryan Garcia beats Devin Haney after months of online backlash 

In a shocking upset, Ryan Garcia defeated the heavily favored Devin Haney by a narrow majority decision at a sold-out Barclays Center in Brooklyn. The fight, marred by months of online trash talk from Garcia, lived up to its dramatic billing with a wild slugfest.

Garcia, known for his flamboyant personality and devastating punching power, overcame a slow start to emerge victorious. Haney, the more technical boxer, dominated the early rounds using his jab and footwork to keep Garcia at bay.

However, the tide turned in the seventh round when Garcia landed a thunderous left hook that sent Haney crashing to the canvas.

This near-knockout seemed to rejuvenate Garcia, who relentlessly pressured Haney for the remainder of the fight. The judges ultimately rewarded Garcia's aggression, awarding him a close but clear victory (112-112, 114-110, 115-109).

This win marks a significant turning point in Garcia's career. Before tonight, his only world title shot resulted in a loss to Gervonta Davis. Now, having defeated the previously undefeated Haney, Garcia has firmly established himself as a major force in the super lightweight division.

The boxing and UFC communities erupted in reaction to the unexpected outcome. Combat sports journalist Ariel Helwani lauded Garcia's performance:

“Unbelievable. Ryan Garcia has just beaten Devin Haney by decision. He earned that. He deserved to win. He just fought the fight of his life - amid all the madness - and won fair and square against a p4p great. One of the most memorable fights and performances I have ever witnessed. Wow.”

Former UFC bantamweight champion Aljamain Sterling also chimed in:

“Ryan Garcia! This is actually poetic comedy. Is he legit “off”? Or is it all a show? His Skills are different than typical boxers but it works for him. This is a pretty impressive showing against a fundamentally sound Haney. #HaneyGarcia”

Former UFC contender Jorge Masvidal labeled Garcia's fight as the "greatest troll job ever."

Popular UFC interviewer Nina-Marie Daniele also posted:

Former UFC star Nate Diaz also took to his X handle and congratulated the winner, writing:

"Shoutout Ryan Garcia sick fight 👊🏼"

Check out some of the reactions below:

Ryan Garcia receives appreciation following his win over Devin Haney