Boxing enthusiasts are on tenterhooks as Devin Haney is likely to be meticulously observing Regis Prograis’s performance in tonight’s maiden title defence of his WBC light welterweight championship against Danielito Zorrilla.
Although Eddie Hearn has confirmed that Haney won’t be physically present at the Prograis-Zorrilla bout due to a previous engagement, it’s indisputable that Haney will be monitoring the match keenly.
Next week, Hearn is planning to pitch an offer to the undefeated Haney, who holds an impressive record of 30 wins and zero losses, 15 of them by knockout. Hearn’s ultimate hope is that Haney will acquiesce. Unlike many others, Hearn predicts a victory for Prograis over Haney and it’s not because he manages him. He genuinely believes Prograis is the superior boxer.
Prograis, who boasts a track record of 28 wins, one loss and 24 knockouts, commands a huge advantage over Haney with his remarkable strength and resilience. Haney, who lacks a punch and has been undermined in several bouts at 135, including his most recent against Vasyl Lomachenko, might struggle against Prograis’s power.
It’s plausible that Haney will aim to familiarise himself with the 140-lb division before he dares to challenge a formidable opponent like Prograis. His experience so far in the 135 division doesn’t seem to have prepped him adequately for the challenge Prograis presents.
Devin’s father, Bill Haney, is yet to reveal his next move for his son. Earlier this week, Bill shared a brief video of him in talks with Top Rank promoter Bob Arum about three potential contenders. However, since then, Bill has been reticent, maintaining a low-key presence.
In a conversation with DAZN’s JABS, Chris Mannix posed a question to Sergio Mora: “Who would you back in a Haney-Prograis fight?”
Mora’s response was immediate: “Regis Prograis, no question. He’s a natural at 140-pounds, a shrewd and sturdy southpaw. His record speaks volumes, the power is evident, his style is unique, and he’s hungry for victory.”
Mora continued, “After that defeat, Prograis has secured four consecutive victories, all by knockout. I believe his power will be the game-changer here, and Haney, who has already faltered at 135, will find the extra five pounds an overwhelming challenge against a behemoth like Regis Prograis.”
Mannix weighed in on the backlash Devin Haney has been receiving in recent weeks following his close fight with Vasily Lomachenko. He said, “The idea that Haney’s win against Lomachenko was somehow unjust is absurd. Devin Haney clinched that victory fair and square. It’s acceptable to have a differing viewpoint, but to label the fight as a robbery is preposterous. Devin Haney deserved that decision.”
Mannix further elaborated on the rising stock of Regis Prograis and his three-fight deal with Matchroom, which is believed to lead to a title unification bout within the next year. He also commented on Devin Haney’s slightly waning reputation, despite being the undisputed champion at 135.
In Mannix’s view, Haney would be significantly underrated in a match against Prograis. He concluded, “Devin Haney’s skills are so polished that if this fight were to happen in six to eight months, I would back Devin Haney in that bout.”
