The power of Regis Prograis was too much for Kiryl Relikh at the Cajun Dome in Lafayette, Louisiana, as Prograis knocked out the former champion to win the Super Lightweight belt of the World Boxing Association (WBA). The power of the American was too much on Saturday night and he got the technical knockout against the Belarussian during the semifinal of the World Boxing Super Series.
Prograis showed his superiority in the very first round, when a blow to the liver damaged the European and sent him to the canvas. From that moment on, Prograis has the upper hand and although Relikh stood up with courage and worked toe to toe at times, he was overwhelmed in all aspects by the left-handed fighter.
The boxer from Louisiana had the patience to demolish his opponent little by little. Also, he had to work with caution as he had a dangerous man in front of him in Relikh, who did not stop being dangerous at any time of the fight. The counterattacks to the area of the liver were vital and at the height of the sixth round. After another forceful blow to that area, the referee decided that it was not worth continuing for the Belarusian.
Prograis is now in the WBSS finals and is the new WBA Champion, while his balance remains immaculate in 24 fights, of which he has won 20 via knockout. Relikh, who lost the crown in his second defense, leaves with a record of 23 wins, 3 losses and 19 knockouts.
