Eddie Hearn Optimistic on Regis Prograis vs Devin Haney for Fall 2023
3kingsboxing.com previously reported that promoter Eddie Hearn was optimistic about staging a fight between undisputed lightweight champion Devin “The Dream” Haney (30-0, 15 KOs) and reigning WBC junior welterweight champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (29-1, 24 KOs). The Chairman of Matchroom Promotions now has revealed that negotiations are proceeding smoothly and is optimistic that all parties will agree to a deal. During an interview with the British news source Boxing News, Hearn had this to say about the potential contest:
“The talks are going well with Devin Haney. I think we’re going to reach a deal for him to fight Regis Pograis. We still need to reach a deal with Regis to fight Devin Haney . . . I’m going to catch up with Devin again this week in Los Angeles, and confident we can make Haney-Prograis for the fall.”
THE MAKINGS OF A FIGHT
Prograis is coming off a split-decision victory over Danelito Zorilla in June 2023. In attendance for that fight was Haney’s father and trainer, Bill Haney. Following the win over Zorilla, Rougarou and the lightweight champion had a phone call where both had some friendly back-and-forth trash talk.
Haney has not officially announced that he’s moving up in weight. But Hearn’s comments indicate that the lightweight champion’s next fight will be at 140 pounds.
The junior welterweight champion has an ordered title defense against the WBC mandatory challenger, Sandor Martin. But the sanctioning body is on record saying they will grant Prograis an exemption to face Haney.
For Rougarou, facing Haney would represent the high-profile fight he’s wanted his whole career. A showdown with Prograis would be a dangerous affair but also another sign of Haney’s commitment to fighting the best of the best. The stage is being set for this bout to occur. Stay tuned to 3kingsboxing.com for further updates.
