DeGale determined ahead of crunch fight
James DeGale has pledged to “bounce back in style” when he returns to the ring on Saturday.
DeGale will challenge Poland’s Piotr Wilczewski for the European super-middleweight title in the Harlesden man’s first outing since a controversial split-decision defeat against rival George Groves in May.
He is expecting a tough fight against the experienced Wilczewski, who is ranked two in the world by the WBO and has lost only one of his 30 fights.
“It’s a great opportunity for me and I’m going to grab it with both hands,” DeGale told West London Sport.
“I haven’t seen too much of him but his record speaks for itself. From what I have seen of him he’s tough, durable and is technical as well – he can box too.
“It’s going to be a difficult fight. He isn’t coming here just to let his title go. But I want that European title and have trained for a very tough night. I’m ready.”
A victory would put DeGale, 25, in line for a world title shot or a rematch with Groves, who defends his British and Commonwealth crowns against Paul Smith at Wembley Arena next month.
“All the great fighters have setbacks, it’s about how they come back from them, and I’m looking to bounce back in style and be European champion,” DeGale declared.
“I don’t want to run before I can walk, but I feel I can mix with the big boys and once I’ve got that European title that’s what I’ll be aiming to do.”
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