IBF World Super-Middleweight Champion James DeGale MBE will defend his title against American Caleb Truax in his long-awaited British homecoming on Saturday 9th December when he headlines at London’s Copper Box Arena, exclusively live on BT Sport and BoxNation.
DeGale, Britain’s first ever boxer to win Olympic gold and become a World Champion, returns to Britain to make the fourth defence of his title following a gruelling but glorious two-and-half-year campaign in North America where he cemented his position as the world’s premier super-middleweight.
The trailblazing Brit defeated Andre Dirrell in Boston to win the IBF crown in May 2015; made the first defence in Quebec City against the former holder Lucian Bute in his home city in November 2015; defended it for a second time against hard Mexican Rogelio Medina in Washington in April 2016 and finally came close to unifying the WBC title against Badou Jack in January 2017 in Brooklyn with a controversial draw following a brutal but thrilling fight.
The 31-year-old Harlesden star is excited to return to his home city and fight in front of his home fans as he continue on his quest to become a unified world champion and then look to 2018 at some blockbuster showdowns against his rivals.
With more glory years ahead of him, DeGale is keen to secure his legacy as one of the best ever boxers’ to come out of Britain and join an elite group of great 168lb British world champions that includes his hero Joe Calzaghe, Nigel Benn, Chris Eubank and Steve Collins.
Firstly, DeGale must deal with the Minnesota fighter who will be looking to cause a huge upset by dethroning the defending World champion in his own backyard and with 18 knockouts in 28 wins, DeGale knows that he has to be at his best.
DeGale said, “Truax is a good solid fighter with a top pedigree. He’s been in with some quality opponents like Daniel Jacobs, Jermain Taylor and Andre Dirrell,”
“He’ll be fighting away from home so he’s going to bring it on and try to take my World title, but I’m the best super-middleweight in the world and I’m going into the ring full of confidence and 100 percent fit,”
“I’ve not boxed in London for a few years so I can’t wait to make my return to the ring and soak up the atmosphere from the crowd and put on great show for the fans.”
For further information, go to www.jamesdegale.com and follow James on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter on @jamesdegale1