DeGale backs O’Meara to win title

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James DeGale is backing his friend Steve O’Meara to become Commonwealth light-middleweight champion this weekend.

Both men are products of Dale Youth boxing club in Notting Hill and as professionals have worked under trainer Jim McDonnell.

McDonnell has nurtured O’Meara.

And European super-middleweight champion DeGale believes O’Meara has what it takes to beat unbeaten Liverpudlian Liam Smith at the ExCel London on Saturday and win the vacant title.

DeGale told West London Sport: “I’ve seen myself how much he wants it and how much work he’s put in.

“I hope all that work pays off and I believe it will. I think he’s going to do it and no-one deserves it more.”

O’Meara, who has won his last three fights with early knockouts, will be appearing on the undercard of fellow West Londoner George Groves’ Commonwealth super-middleweight title defence against former world champion Glen Johnson.

And McDonnell, who has long been keen for O’Meara to fight for a major title, is confident his man will prevail.

“With Steve we’re talking about a quality boxer who’s now also showing he’s got power to match.” said McDonnell.

“The improvement in the guy has been phenomenal. When he first came he was probably the weakest guy in the gym. Not anymore.

“He’s so strong these days and is ready to take his chance, no doubt about it.”

West London Sport will have live updates from ExCel London during Groves and O’Meara’s title fights.

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