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Regis Prograis told World Boxing News his only real concern ahead of his April 11 clash with Conor Benn is drug testing for both men.
The two-time world champion also dismissed a reported $15 million figure tied to Benn’s move to Zuffa Boxing, suggesting Eddie Hearn has already been “paid back with interest” from the two Benn vs Chris Eubank Jr. fights.
Speaking exclusively to WBN, Prograis addressed the weight debate, the money talk, and the Benn-Hearn split with a blunt, fight-first view.
Prograis: “As Long As We’re Tested I Feel Confident”
Prograis confirmed he tried to secure terms around the weight situation for the Tottenham Stadium bout on the Tyson Fury undercard, but said Benn’s side rejected them.
“Yeah, I asked the weigh-ins to be at 147 lbs, and they rejected it. Then I asked for a stipulation, and they said no, also. So I said ok that’s fine too. I didn’t want to miss out on the opportunity, so I accepted.”
Benn fought Chris Eubank Jr. at 160 pounds for both London clashes, with a rehydration clause in place.
‘Rougarou’ added that he is not worried about Benn being heavier on fight night, as long as the basics are handled the right way.
“I’m not really worried about the weight difference. Size doesn’t win fights. As long as we’re tested, I feel confident.”
“I Don’t Think The Number Is True Lol”
Prograis also questioned the widely reported $15 million figure attached to Benn’s next fight.
“I don’t think the number is true,” he laughed. “But the fight came pretty fast. I got the call, and the fight was made in about two days.
“At first, I heard they was passing me up, but then I called my manager and said to please make the fight.”
Hearn Split And Tottenham Reaction
Quizzed on Benn’s highly-publicized departure from Eddie Hearn, Prograis framed it as a situation where the public will never have the full story.
“With him and Eddie, I think it’s always three sides to a story,” Prograis pointed out.
However, he suggested Hearn has already benefited heavily from Benn’s recent run.
“Eddie took good care of him early in his career, but Eddie got paid back with interest on those two fights with Eubank.”
Prograis said he is excited to fight in the UK again, with some British fans suggesting they may back him on the night.
The 37-year-old concluded by jokingly stating he would welcome any crowd support that comes with it.
“If I get a bigger cheer than him, that’ll be great. I’m excited about fighting back in the UK.”
Asked about the 60,000 predicted stadium atmosphere, he added: “Yep, looking forward to it.”
About the Author
Phil Jay is the Editor-in-Chief of World Boxing News (WBN) and a veteran boxing reporter with 15+ years of experience. He has interviewed world champions, broken international exclusives, and reported ringside since 2010. Read full bio.
