World champion Devin Haney says Ryan Garcia’s “antics will betray him” as the challenger continued their bitter rivalry with unsavoury exchanges before Saturday’s light-welterweight contest.
The Americans, both 25, will meet at the Barclay Center, Brooklyn, New York.
Garcia launched a foul-mouthed tirade at both Haney and a member of the crowd at Thursday’s news conference.
“The antics are almost done. This isn’t an easy fight but a fight I will make look easy,” Haney said.
“I have my tunnel vision. It will show. All his antics and all the things he has been doing will betray him and it will show.”
Haney pushed fellow Californian Garcia in the face during a promotional meet-up at the top of New York’s Empire State Building on Tuesday, and the bad blood that has dominated the build-up continued two days later.
Garcia – who has spoken openly about his mental health struggles in the past – has posted several erratic, often unsubstantiated and defamatory, social media posts in recent months, leading to concerns from the boxing community over his wellbeing.
“What do you guys want me to say? I’ve already said everything,” he said.
Garcia – who boasts 24 wins with one defeat and is known for his blistering hand speed – then repeatedly yelled “I’m on fire” and “I’m strong” before returning his seat.
Moments later, he directed a number of expletive-laden insults towards a Haney supporter in the audience.
Two-weight world champion Haney, dressed in all black with matching sunglasses and gloves, remained expressionless.
Haney will make a first defence of his 140lb crown. He has won all 31 pro bouts and is widely considered one of boxing’s pound-for-pound stars.
His father and trainer, Bill Haney, and promoter, Eddie Hearn, suggested Garcia’s behaviour should not been taken seriously.
“The promotion you have given this fight has been unbelievable. Baffling, but unbelievable,” Hearn told Garcia.
Haney Sr added: “Ryan has fooled the people into thinking he’s something other than a great fighter,” before handing Garcia a book titled Psychology for Dummies.