but the statement was understood as Haki >>> DF.
Haki >>> DF is true. However, depending on the DF, Haki and DF can have a synergetic effect. Take Katakuri for example, who takes useless, soft Mochi to shape it into any form and harden it, e.g. larger G3 versions or portal Donuts that shoot out hakified fists.
Though one might argue that at a certain point, DF abilities become less significant. Whitebeard had top tier Haki and a top tier fruit, yet he was said to be Roger's equal (with Roger serving as the measurement, not the other way around).