The Frenchman settled in Houston, Texas, under the guidance of Bobby Benton, known for working with world champions like Regis Prograis and O’Shaquie Foster.  

"With Bobby, we built a real relationship," Prat (30-1, 23 KOs) told The Ring. "It is no longer simply a relationship between a boxer and his coach. There is a lot of trust between us.

"Bobby knows American boxing perfectly. He knows what it takes to reach the very high level here: boxing, mentality, work, but also everything that surrounds this sport.

"What I particularly appreciate about him is his honesty. If there's something wrong, he tells me. If I have to work more, he tells me. Bobby pushes me every day. That's exactly what I need."

Prat has embraced Houston as his second home. From the food to the culture, it's a new way of life, vastly different from back in France.

"Everything is bigger here, the city, the distances, the rooms, the cars... but above all the ambitions," he said. "In France, boxing is part of my life. In Houston, boxing can become your whole life. And that's exactly what I came for.

"What impressed me the most was the mentality. Here, I feel a real culture of competition and work. People want to succeed, and they are not afraid to think big. I want to progress in this environment, face the best American boxers and beat them."

In the two years he has spent in Houston, he feels he has improved enormously. 

"I have become stronger and more mature," he explained. "I have a better control of the distance and pace of a fight. I also learn to make adjustments during the fight rather than simply relying on my natural qualities. I worked a lot on my defense.

"And sparring in Houston are very important to me. You meet boxers with different styles, rhythms and physique. I am convinced of one thing: the best version of Milan Prat has not yet been seen."

Similarly, Benton feels Prat's evolution since heading to Texas has been significant.

"When I first started working with him, he was just a tough fighter and a puncher," said Benton. "Milan has a great work ethic, great attitude and dedication. He has improved his IQ tremendously and has learned to follow a game plan.

"He has improved in almost everything. His speed has gotten better; his feet are always set to work. I have enjoyed working with Milan; I feel like he is ready."

Prat's next step comes on Thursday, when he faces Brandon Thysse at Salle du Casino, on the outskirts of Paris.

"I respect Brandon Thysse; he is an experienced, hard boxer, and he comes to win," he said. "That's exactly the kind of fight I want.

"I'm going to fight at home, in front of my audience. I want to make a performance that shows why people in the United States should start watching Milan Prat."

Prat appreciates that the tough, rugged South African represents a certain danger, but one he has to overcome on his journey towards bigger things.

"The worst mistake would be to underestimate him," he stated. "My job will be to control the distance, control the pace and force him to fight in my own way. I don't need to rush.

"If I remain disciplined and execute my plan correctly, I think my power, technique, and boxing will make a difference. I didn't go all the way to Houston just to train. I came here to become one of the best boxers in the world. I want to mark the history of boxing in France."

Questions and/or comments can be sent to Anson at elraincoat@live.co.uk and you can follow him on X@AnsonWainwr1ght