02 Arena, London England, Oct. 26
TV: DAZN
By Peter Lim
This highly-anticipated showdown between two undefeated world titleholders, both southpaws, quickly erupts into an action-packed, see-saw firefight that lives up to its expectations.
TV: DAZN
By Peter Lim
This highly-anticipated showdown between two undefeated world titleholders, both southpaws, quickly erupts into an action-packed, see-saw firefight that lives up to its expectations.
Prograis opts to skip any semblance of a feeling out process and aggressively tears into Taylor from the opening bell forcing the Scotsman into defensive mode. But Taylor soon settles down and begins utilizing his superior reach finding a home for his signature right hooks to the head and body. It is Prograis’ turn to adapt and adjust, and he does so by activating his underrated boxing skill set. Most significantly, he neutralizes Taylor’s right hook by dipping and countering with hooks of his own.
The fight quickly evolves into a suspenseful and scintillating shootout with both fighters trading on relatively even terms from range and up close and personal. But Prograis’ edge in power takes more of a cumulative toll on Taylor as the fight progresses. Taylor begins to fade in the later rounds while Prograis remains as fresh and energetic as he was in the early goings.
Aware he is behind on the scorecards, Taylor courageously attempts to rally in the final round and lets his fists fly with reckless abandon. But Prograis remains composed, meets the assault head on and drops Taylor with a well-timed left cross to seal a close but clear cut decision victory in the 115-112 to 116-111 range.
The fight quickly evolves into a suspenseful and scintillating shootout with both fighters trading on relatively even terms from range and up close and personal. But Prograis’ edge in power takes more of a cumulative toll on Taylor as the fight progresses. Taylor begins to fade in the later rounds while Prograis remains as fresh and energetic as he was in the early goings.
Aware he is behind on the scorecards, Taylor courageously attempts to rally in the final round and lets his fists fly with reckless abandon. But Prograis remains composed, meets the assault head on and drops Taylor with a well-timed left cross to seal a close but clear cut decision victory in the 115-112 to 116-111 range.
