(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Regis Prograis Reflects on Thrilling Clash with Joseph Diaz Jr.
Just over a week after his action-packed bout with Joseph “JoJo” Diaz Jr., former WBA and WBC super-lightweight champion Regis Prograis says he’s feeling great — and it shows.
“You can look at my face — I have nothing on it,” Prograis said with a smile. “Even the day after, I didn’t have any marks. I really enjoyed everything about that fight and the training camp.”
The 36-year-old champion spent weeks in Las Vegas preparing, leaving the comfort of home to stay fully focused. “If I hadn’t trained like that, I probably would’ve lost,” he admitted. “I locked in and avoided distractions. That made the difference.”
Going into the contest, Prograis believed his experience and style would lead to a quick victory. But Diaz proved to be far more resilient than expected. “I thought I could finish it in one or two rounds, but he came in prepared and in shape. He was tougher than I thought.”
In the first round, Diaz landed a strong shot that surprised Prograis. “It made my left leg feel numb for a moment — something that’s never happened to me before. But after that, I recovered and felt fine.”
Some TV analysts speculated about Prograis’ footwork, but he explained that his naturally flat-footed stance sometimes affects his balance. “I just need to work on my balance more, but my legs were fine.”
The fight even featured a dramatic moment when a ringside doctor checked Diaz’s vision after a cut appeared. Despite struggling to give the correct answers, Diaz was allowed to continue — much to Prograis’ satisfaction. “I’m glad the fight went on. It’s now considered a classic.”
With his record now at 30 wins (24 by KO) and 3 losses, Prograis has his sights set on becoming a three-time world champion.
