Is Regis Prograis heading to PBC?
There have been some huge shakeups over the last few weeks regarding two former junior welterweight champions. A while back, former WBA junior welterweight champion Regis “Rougarou” Prograis (24-1, 20KOs) and longtime promoter Lou DiBella mutually parted ways. Former WBO champion Maurice Hooker (27-1-3, 18KOs) is also on the move after agreeing to a multi-fight deal with PBC.
PROGRAIS CHASING HOOKER?
Both men were supposed to face off April 17 in a catch weight bout at 143lbs. However the fight was postponed due to COVID-19 and eventually scrapped altogether. However should Prograis follow suit after Hooker, it seems that the two could inevitably meet up at some point.
WHY PBC INSTEAD OF TOP RANK?
Some may be confused with this move, as Prograis has told 3kingsboxing that a move to 147 wasn’t in the plans until he won another world title at junior welterweight. A move to Top Rank would’ve been logical considering they promote unified 140 champions Jose Ramirez (25-0, 17KOs) and Josh Taylor (16-0, 12KOs).
However, a change of heart would lead him to PBC as they have the deepest stable of welterweights. Such names include unified champion Errol Spence (26-0, 21KOs), former champions Shawn Porter (30-3-1, 17KOs), Danny Garcia (36-2, 21KOs) and Keith Thurman (29-1, 22KOs).
Again nothing is official, as this is just pure speculation. However if this move becomes a reality, it will certainly shake up things at 147. It’ll also add enormous depth to an already deep talent pool of welterweights that PBC have under their banner.
UPDATE
Prograis has indeed agreed to terms with PBC for a one-fight deal and will return October 24 against Juan Heraldez (16-0-1, 10KOs). The fight will take place on the undercard of Gervonta Davis v Leo Santa Cruz.
3kingsboxing.com will continue to monitor the situation and provide updates as they become available.
By: Jerrell Fletcher
