Regis Prograis has firmly denied any injury concerns ahead of his highly anticipated fight with Conor Benn this Saturday, dismissing widespread rumours as part of what he describes as a potential "conspiracy" to replace him. The American former super-lightweight champion is set to face Benn on the undercard of Tyson Fury's comeback bout against Arslanbek Makhmudov, with the pair meeting at a 150lb catchweight.
Prograis Questions Potential Replacement Plot
In an exclusive interview with Boxing News, Prograis expressed suspicion about the timing of injury rumours and suggestions that a backup fighter was being prepared. "I feel like it's some type of plot going on, like they want to put somebody else in my place," Prograis revealed. "As soon as I got here, they were already saying: 'Yeah, we've got somebody. Let me know, we can have somebody.'"
The 37-year-old fighter emphasized his commitment to the bout, stating: "I'm here. I'm proving that I'm willing to fight. I came over here, I don't have to be here right now if I don't want to. I came, so why are people trying to put somebody else in my place already?"
Benn's First Fight Since Shock Promoter Split
This contest marks Benn's first appearance since his surprising departure from promoter Eddie Hearn and Matchroom in February. The British fighter has since signed a one-fight deal with rival promotion Zuffa Boxing, though Saturday's event is being promoted by The Ring magazine and will stream live on Netflix rather than through Zuffa's usual channels.
Prograis defended Benn's career move during a March interview with The Independent, stating: "I tell every fighter, 'Make your money,' because listen: when Conor is retired, Eddie is still gonna be promoting people, he's still gonna be making money. If you're the one literally putting your life on the line, why wouldn't you make as much money as you can?"
Recent Form and Career Trajectories
Prograis enters Saturday's contest following a points victory over Joseph Diaz in August, which came after consecutive points losses to Devin Haney and Jack Catterall. Meanwhile, Benn suffered his first professional defeat last April when he was outpointed by bitter rival Chris Eubank Jr, though he avenged that loss dramatically in November by dropping Eubank Jr en route to a decision victory.
Division Changes and Weight Considerations
The upcoming bout represents significant division changes for both fighters. Prograis, typically a super-lightweight competitor, is venturing outside his preferred weight class for the first time in his career. Conversely, Benn is moving back toward his natural welterweight frame after his two-fight series with Eubank Jr at middleweight in 2025.
Prograis remains adamant about his readiness and dismissive of the injury speculation that has surrounded his preparation. "Maybe, like I said, [there's] some type of plot, some type of conspiracy going on," he acknowledged. "But look, bro: I'm good, I can fight."
The American fighter's comments highlight the tension and speculation building around this undercard matchup, which takes place amid broader changes in boxing promotion and broadcasting. With both fighters looking to make statements in their respective career trajectories, Saturday's contest promises high stakes beyond just the immediate result.
