Prograis On Possible Isaac Cruz Showdown: “I Would Love That Fight, I Really Think I Beat Him Up Bad"
BY HANS THEMISTODE
Published Thu Jan 19, 2023, 09:22 AM EST
In the mind of Isaac Cruz, his championship dreams were unfairly dashed away following 12 competitive rounds against Gervonta Davis. Since his highly publicized defeat, Cruz (24-2-1, 17 KOs) has successfully picked up the pieces, reeling off two consecutive stoppage victories.
With that familiar winning feeling, Cruz is hoping to lure Davis back into the ring. Presently, however, the Baltimore native has his eyes set on squaring off against Ryan Garcia. In the immediate aftermath of Davis’ decision, Cruz could seek refuge one division higher.
“If there is a world title fight, that would be an option," said Cruz Sr. during a recent interview with Izquierdazo. “But only if there is a real world title fight. We wouldn't be interested in moving up, except if there is a world title opportunity 140, we would take it.”
Although Cruz Sr. didn't solely target Regis Prograis, he did openly confess that if Prograis were willing, his son, Cruz, would have no issue with fighting the newly minted world champion at the super lightweight limit.
Upon hearing the news, Prograis (28-1, 24 KOs) admitted that he was initially taken aback. But after processing what he originally heard, Prograis has begun sporting an indelible smirk as he hopes and prays that a matchup against the 135-pound contender comes to fruition.
“I would love that,” said Prograis to BoxingScene.com. “I would love that fight.”
Prograis, 33, had spent the better part of the last three years in boxing’s doldrums. Although he acknowledges that fighting his way back up the ranks was incredibly difficult, Prograis unveiled a pot of gold at the end of his tumultuous rainbow.
On November 26th, the New Orleans native rewrapped his waist with championship gold following his 11th-round knockout victory over Jose Zepeda. Now, with a long list of credible contenders waiting for him in the wings, Prograis believes that he's now in a position of power.
If, by chance, team Cruz is able to hammer out a deal with the WBC super lightweight champion, Prograis is convinced that no matter what Cruz brings to the table, he’ll easily nullify all of his attributes.
“I really think I’ll stop him, I really think I beat him up bad and if I don’t, I can box circles around him.”