Prograis Warns Benn's Risky Strategy Will Ultimately Backfire
Regis Prograis has cautioned that Conor Benn's bold move will ultimately prove to be a miscalculation when the two face off this weekend. Benn is set to return to the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the venue of his previous middleweight victories, including his win over Chris Eubank Jr. Prograis, a former super-lightweight world champion, is moving up to 150lbs to fight Benn at a catchweight with no rehydration limit. "Although they've set the terms in his favor, I'm confident in my ability to win," Prograis stated in an interview with Sky Sports. "Given my extensive experience fighting at 140lbs, this is a significant jump for me. I proposed a weight stipulation for the following day, but they declined, stating it was not feasible. I chose to prioritize making the fight happen over worrying about the weight. I'm well aware of my capabilities and don't concern myself with weight restrictions. My goal is to make this fight a reality." Prograis remains steadfast in his conviction that he will emerge victorious and has also revealed that he won't be bound by a rematch clause following his bout with Benn. "We didn't include a rematch clause in our agreement," the American explained. "However, if the fans want to see it and there's a demand for it, I'd be open to considering it. My initial plan was to move up to 147lbs, but they contacted me on short notice. Fortunately, I was already training, so it worked out. They're taking a risk by facing me, given my recent training." Prograis doesn't consider Benn to be in the same league as him. "I don't think so," he said. "I know I'm the better fighter. I think Benn is an average fighter, neither exceptionally good nor bad. If you compare our achievements, mine far surpass his. I've been ranked No 1 in the world twice and have held the championship title twice; he has not accomplished that. This fight will be different from his previous one against Chris Eubank. It's a different level and style, and I'm confident in my superiority." A win over Benn would serve as a stepping stone for Prograis to pursue another world title opportunity. "It will open up numerous possibilities for me," he said. "I'm aware that after this fight, something significant will arise. My goal is to become a three-time champion."