Regis Prograis has successfully advanced to the semi-final stages with a resounding unanimous decision victory over Terry ‘Turbo’ Flanagan.
In stark contrast to his previous destructive displays, it was a thoroughly composed and measured performance from the self-styled Rougarou; but nonetheless dominant, winning virtually every round in front of thousands of adoring hometown spectators at the Lakefront Arena.
Indeed, the New Orleans native clearly relished the opportunity to take centre stage as the main attraction, showcasing a different dimension to his game as he systematically broke Flanagan down with razor-sharp jabs and head movement.
Flanagan, to his credit, put up a typically stubborn and spirited effort, and somehow managed to survive a torrid eighth round where he was dropped by a left hand and rocked repeatedly with some devastating combinations.
The seemingly effortless manner of Prograis’ victory will no doubt in his view vindicate his position as the tournament favourite, and certainly bodes well for his semi-final against Belarussian WBA champion Kiryl Relikh. Meanwhile, Relikh’s undefeated compatriot Ivan Baranchyk claimed the vacant IBF light-welterweight title with a win over Swedish contender Anthony Yigit, who was stopped after seven rounds of unrelenting punishment.
Newly-crowned champion Baranchyk will be facing the winner of Josh Taylor against Ryan Martin in the tournament semi-final.
Article by: Navi Singh
Follow Navi on Twitter at: @DarkMan________