Devin Haney (25-0) will put his lightweight title and undefeated record on the line against Jorge Linares (47-5) on Saturday, May 29. Here is a preview and pick ahead of this intriguing crossroads clash.

Haney seeks legitimacy

“The Dream” is taking a step up in this fight. It is the third defense of his WBC title, off an uneventful decision victory over Yuriorkis Gamboa in November. He is in need of an impressive win.

Haney is a champion, but is clearly learning on the job. The 22-year-old has exceptional skills and speed, but questions linger about his power and level of opposition. He fights with a chip on his shoulder, because he was awarded his title, as opposed to winning it in the ring.

Linares is being overlooked

Linares could be nearing the end of his career.

The former three-division champion has had an impressive run, but he has been stopped in two of his last five fights and picked up wins against low-level opponents.

At his best, Linares is a torrid combination puncher who attacks at all angles. Though he is past his prime and will fight above his best weight, Linares was the best fighter at lightweight before he was stopped by Vasyl Lomachenko in 2018.

Haney should narrowly defeat Linares

When Haney took the old, shot Gamboa the distance in his last fight, it was not a flattering performance. Linares is past his best, but he is the best opponent Haney has faced. This could be a close fight.

Linares’ conditioning is his Achilles' heel. He often runs out of gas by the midway point of a fight. That's usually the result of fighting a larger man, and he more often than not is ahead on the scorecards before calamity occurs. Haney either has to target his body, goad him into a firefight, or out-slick him with youth.

For a considerable favorite, Haney has a tough fight on his hands. Linares should give him trouble early, but Haney’s slick defense and movement will leave his opponent exhausted in the later rounds.

In a close fight, expect Haney to pull ahead late and score a narrow decision victory.

Boxing pick: Haney