Boxing star Devin Haney is embroiled in a new legal battle with the mother of his months-old daughter, Leena Sayed, who is now facing a lawsuit from the undefeated fighter. TMZ Sports has obtained court records showing Haney filed the suit in Los Angeles on Wednesday — less than two months after Sayed obtained a temporary domestic violence restraining order against him.
Alleged Extortion and Defamation Claims
In the lawsuit, Haney claims Sayed threatened him with reputational damage and loss of visitation rights in an effort to extract more money. He alleges she has repeatedly published false and defamatory statements about him, calling her actions “extreme and outrageous.”
Haney is suing for intentional infliction of emotional distress and is seeking unspecified damages.
“Devin will not be extorted, intimidated, or coerced by anyone,” Haney’s attorney Bobby Samini said. “He will defend his name, and his values against any false narratives or malicious attempts to undermine his character.”
Leena Sayed Responds Through Her Lawyer
Leena Sayed’s attorney, Mark Vincent Kaplan, told TMZ Sports that Sayed is not attempting to extort Haney.
“She is only seeking to get what the law requires Mr. Haney to pay for child support,” Kaplan said.
“While he claims he’s defamed by the truthful allegations she’s provided, he should be aware that in the law of defamation, truth is a defense.”
Kaplan added:
“I think Mr. Haney would be best served to make his case in family court and not on social media.”
Timeline of Allegations
Sayed’s restraining order, filed roughly eight weeks ago, alleged multiple instances of abuse over the past year and a half. She claimed one of the worst incidents occurred in December 2024, when she says Haney pushed her while nine months pregnant, causing her to fall on her tailbone after refusing to hand over her cell phone.
Haney’s lawsuit does not specifically address the abuse allegation, but his lawyers maintain that Sayed fabricated claims of physical abuse.
Couple’s History
Haney and Sayed reportedly met around two years ago, and Sayed gave birth to their daughter, Khrome, in January 2025. The couple is now scheduled for a hearing in the restraining order case in Los Angeles early next month.
“Devin Haney has built his career with integrity, discipline, and respect,” Samini said. “He has worked tirelessly to achieve success through dedication, not shortcuts, and remains committed to conducting himself with honesty and principle inside and outside the ring.”
Social Media and Public Interest
The case has already stirred social media debate, with fans split on whether Sayed is seeking rightful support or attempting to exploit Haney’s fame. Some supporters defend Sayed, noting the severity of her prior allegations, while others back Haney’s claims of defamation.
Entertainment law experts say the case could gain even more attention as it moves forward in both the family court and the public eye.
Call-to-Action:
What are your thoughts on the Devin Haney vs. Leena Sayed legal battle? Who do you believe — the boxer or his baby mom? Share your opinion in the comments below!
