James DeGale has insisted that the time has arrived to prove his doubters and haters wrong in his IBF super-middleweight title fight against Andre Dirrell on Saturday.
READ MORE:
Brook gives DeGale advice: Fellow Brit knows how to win on American soil.
Groves backs DeGale to win: Rival wishes ‘Chunky’ good luck.
DeGale destined to become world champion: (Video) Brit says his time is now.
DeGale takes on Dirrell in Boston on Saturday for the title vacated by Carl Froch earlier this year, and the 29-year-old has constantly reminded people that he is ready to make history.
Having had an extended camp back in London as he awaited news of the date and venue, DeGale travelled to Miami last week to continue his preparations and acclimatise while he arrived in Boston this week.
The Londoner is hoping to become the first British Olympic gold medallist to become a world champion, and he is fully focused on the task in hand as he looks to upset the odds with his American opponent the slight favourite.
“I’m in Boston, it’s fight week and it’s all go. It’s all becoming very, very real,” he told Sky Sports.
“I’m pretty busy all week now and fight night’s Saturday. I’ll be busy, my weight’s fine, 4lb over. I’m just raring to go. I’m ready. I’m looking forward to it, I’m focused, my mind’s on it.
“I’ve trained too hard, I’ve come so far, it’s my time to prove all the doubters and haters wrong.”
It has been quite the turnaround for DeGale after his bitter loss to George Groves four years ago, as he then spent time rebuilding and fighting in smaller venues as he seemingly lost his way.
However, a switch to Matchroom last year resulted in an impressive performance against Brandon Gonzales at Wembley last May before he became the first man to stop Marco Antonio Periban in Liverpool in November.
DeGale appears to be full of confidence and in great shape, and many believe that he is more than capable of bringing back the world title.
COMMENTS