Regis Prograis will return to his hometown of New Orleans, Louisiana and defend his WBC Super Lightweight Championship on June 17, 2023 at the Smoothie King Center. Initially, Liam Paro was expected to challenge Prograis for his world title. Unfortunately, he suffered an injury that will prevent him from entering the weekend of Juneteenth. Now, Danielito Zorrilla of Puerto Rico will take his place and challenge the New Orleans native for the 140-pound title.
“I’m glad that Zorrilla has taken the fight. Nothing changes for me; I am still working hard to go out there and prove that I am the best fighter in the world at 140 lbs. I will go out, do my thing, show out for my city and defend my title with pride,” Prograis said.
“I’m sad for Liam but we have a great replacement, and I am going to make every proud. Everyone in the city is stopping me in the street and asking me about the fight, so I cannot wait to get in there and put on a show, it’s going to be a firefight.”
Danielito Zorrilla is 29-year-old contender from Toa Baja, Puerto Rico. Since making his debut in 2016, he has amassed a pro record of 17-1 with 13 knockouts. He suffered his lone loss in 2022 at the hands of Arnold Barboza Jr. Months later, he picked up a TKO victory against Aristides Quintero. Now, he will challenge Prograis for a world title.
“We have waited for this opportunity for a long time in my career and it has finally arrived,” Zorrilla said.
“I am ready to be a world champion, I am grateful to Prograis for giving me the opportunity but on June 17, there will be a new World champion.”
? Announced: Regis Prograis will now defend his WBC super-lightweight world title vs Danielito Zorrilla on June 17th in New Orleans after Liam Paro pulled out due to injury.
— Michael Benson (@MichaelBensonn) May 22, 2023
