A portrait of Regis and Danielito- what a cheek!

The World Boxing Council super lightweight champion, Regis Prograis, will defend his title against Puerto Rican Danielito Zorrilla, this Saturday June 17 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, Louisiana.

Prograis (28-1, 24 KOs) became the 140-pound world champion by knocking out Jose “Chon”Zepeda in 11 rounds at Dignity Health in California last November.

The 34-year-old New Orleans favorite son, has defeated Juan Heraldez, Ivan Redkach and Tyrone McKenna in his most recent bouts.

While Zorrilla (17-1, 13 KOs), promoted by former champion Miguel Cotto, has a golden opportunity to win the coveted WBC Green and Gold Belt on June 17, replacing the injured Liam Paro. The 29-year-old has beaten the likes of Pablo César Cano and Gamaliel Diaz.

Both fighters were face to face and freely commented on some aspects of the attractive fight they will have and hold:

“It’s not hard to focus because when you’re fighting someone that people say is less than you, those are the dangerous and difficult fights, because you don’t know what they have, and you need to shine against them,” Prograis said.

“There is already pressure on me as I fight at home in New Orleans. My people come to see me. I am the best at 140 pounds and I will prove it on Saturday.”

Undeterred, Zorrilla commented: “I know that people believe that I have no opportunity to defeat Prograis. This so motivates me. I like it because I see it as a challenge. Nobody takes me into consideration, but I count on myself and on Saturday I will show who I am and I will give Puerto Rico a new world champion.

“Not being the favorite boxer, the surprise will be even bigger. Everything I have against I use as motivation. I have been preparing very hard for a difficult match. I’m ready for anyone. I am not afraid of challenges. That’s why we’re here. Also, boxers’ careers are short, so opportunities like this cannot be missed!”