Regis Prograis Firmly Rejects Injury Speculation Before High-Stakes Bout with Conor Benn
Former world champion Regis Prograis has emphatically declared his readiness to compete against Conor Benn this weekend, directly countering claims from promoter Eddie Hearn that he is carrying an injury. The fight is set as an undercard event at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday night, headlined by Tyson Fury's heavyweight clash with Arslanbek Makhmudov.
Prograis Addresses Hearn's Allegations and Fight Preparations
In a recent statement, Prograis acknowledged the typical rigors of training camp but affirmed his fitness. "In camp, you're always going to get some stuff, but I'm good to fight," he said. "People are saying stuff about injuries but I'm good. I saw that Eddie put it out there; maybe he's a little salty about things, because he did promote me and Conor; maybe he wants me to be injured some type of way, but I'm good to fight."
Prograis further revealed that there were attempts to replace him, suggesting internal conflicts. "No. I think Eddie or whoever wanted to put somebody else in. Because when I got here they were trying to find a replacement. They said, 'We've got a replacement already, let us know what's going on.' They might still be waiting right now; it's like somebody's trying to get into the event some type of way."
Background and Context of the Benn vs. Prograis Matchup
This bout marks Prograis's third appearance in the UK, following previous defeats by Josh Taylor and Jack Catterall. Despite those setbacks, he remains confident and unconcerned about potential judging controversies. "I don't know why, I'm just not worried about nothing right now," Prograis added. "I just feel like I'm better. I'm not worried about judges or the referee, I just feel like I'm better. I'm just all around I feel like I'm a better fighter."
Conor Benn's return to the ring comes after signing a lucrative £10 million one-fight deal with UFC CEO Dana White, following his split from Eddie Hearn. Prograis was a surprise selection as Benn's opponent, adding an element of unpredictability to the event.
Prograis Assesses Benn's Strengths and Fight Dynamics
While expressing respect for Benn's abilities, Prograis highlighted his own advantages in experience and resume. "But I do think he's a big test, just because of his size. I think I have a better resume and I have more experience. And we did a face-off, and me and Conor are the same size, so I don't even see people talking about the size, I don't even see how that's a threat. But I don't want to discredit him. I still think he's a good fighter."
The main event features Tyson Fury coming out of retirement to face Russian boxer Arslanbek Makhmudov in a heavyweight showdown in London on April 11. This fight will be streamed live on Netflix, with viewing options available through Sky's TV bundles, including the £15 Essential TV bundle or £24 Ultimate TV bundle, the latter offering additional access to HBO Max and Disney+.
