After suffering a tough unanimous decision loss to Jack Catterall last weekend, Regis Prograis is considering a move up to the welterweight division. Known for his power and unyielding style, Prograis has voiced his frustration with the exhausting process of cutting to 140 pounds. But is his struggle rooted in the weight cut, or has recent matchmaking under Matchroom Boxing put him in unfavourable match-ups? Could a move to 147 pounds be the change he needs to get back on top?
Tough Weekend: Prograis’ Unanimous Decision Loss to Catterall
Prograis’ fight against Catterall ended in a clear unanimous decision loss, and many were surprised by how the fight unfolded. Over 12 rounds, Catterall’s technical approach proved difficult for Prograis to break through. The unanimous decision left no room for doubt – this was not a close fight, and it’s sparked questions about Prograis’ future at super lightweight. Prograis has openly stated he’s “tired of being skinny,” suggesting that making the 140-pound limit may be taking too much out of him. But is the weight really the issue, or are his recent match-ups stifling his style?
Is the Weight Cut Holding Prograis Back?
It’s no secret that Prograis has often struggled with making 140 pounds, describing how the weight cut leaves him feeling drained. Cutting down to super lightweight might be affecting his strength, energy, and endurance, which are critical for a fighter whose style is built on power and persistence. Prograis has said he’s “tired of being skinny,” and as he moves forward, he may be considering whether the effort to stay at this weight class is impacting his ability to perform at his best.
Without the constant focus on weight, Prograis might be able to concentrate on maintaining his power and speed, freeing himself to fight at full strength. A move to welterweight would allow him to bring his natural power without the drain of cutting down, potentially giving him a stamina and energy boost that could make all the difference in his performance.
Could Matchroom’s Matchmaking Be Limiting His Potential?
While weight is certainly a factor, there’s also growing speculation that Prograis’ recent opponents aren’t giving him the best chance to shine. Since signing with Matchroom, he’s been paired with opponents who focus more on defence and strategy – styles that haven’t played to Prograis’ strengths as a powerful, aggressive fighter. The loss to Catterall, which ended in a unanimous decision, highlighted how a technical, defensive style can leave Prograis struggling to break through.
Before joining Matchroom, Prograis faced opponents willing to engage more directly, giving him opportunities to bring out his knock-out power. Recently, however, he’s been up against fighters who rely more on out-manoeuvring and slowing him down rather than direct exchanges. The result has been more challenging, less explosive fights, where his usual aggression is harder to execute. Moving to welterweight might give Prograis a chance to find opponents who suit his skill set better, allowing him to showcase the fierce, powerful fighting style that brought him success in the first place.
Is Matchroom Boxing Limiting His Career Potential?
Since teaming up with Matchroom, Prograis has seen a shift in his career trajectory, and some wonder if it’s the matchmaking approach that’s holding him back. Matchroom’s roster is deep with technical boxers who prioritise precision and defence, and these matchups often put Prograis at a disadvantage. Boxing fans are beginning to wonder if Prograis is simply not getting the right opponents to highlight his skills.
A move to welterweight could offer him more freedom in match-making, along with fresh opportunities to face aggressive fighters who may be more willing to go toe-to-toe. Without the burden of making 140 pounds and with the possibility of more favourable matchups, Prograis might be able to bring back the explosive style fans love to see.
Should Prograis Move Up to Welterweight?
The unanimous decision loss to Catterall has led many to question if a move up to welterweight is Prograis’ best option. Shifting to 147 pounds could provide several advantages: the freedom to focus on power without the distraction of weight cuts, the chance to fight in a division with a broader range of styles, and the opportunity to rebuild his career in one of boxing’s most competitive weight classes.
If Prograis makes the leap, he’ll be stepping into a division filled with fierce competitors and big names. But with his skill, power, and drive, he could thrive, reclaiming the momentum that’s been hard to find in recent matchups. A new weight class, new opponents, and the freedom to fight at his full strength might just be the winning formula for Prograis, allowing him to make his mark once more in the sport.