DeGale ready for crucial fight at Wembley

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James DeGale is determined to take his chance to secure a world title fight when he faces unbeaten American Brandon Gonzales at Wembley on Saturday.

The bout is a final eliminator for the IBF super-middleweight title held by Carl Froch and is the chief support to the rematch between the Nottingham man and George Groves.

It means a victory for DeGale, 28, would set up a clash with Froch or another showdown with his arch-rival and fellow West Londoner Groves, who won a close points decision when they met three years ago.

DeGale declared: “It’s here, I’m ready, the pressure’s on and I can’t wait. It’s the perfect fight for me.

“This is what I’ve been waiting for; Wembley stadium, 80,000 people. It’s going to be unbelievable.

“I’ve prepared and am ready for a good opponent in Brandon Gonzales, who is a good fighter, unbeaten and confident – he really thinks he’s going to win.

“But I’m on my journey to become a world champion and no one is going to stop me.”

DeGale’s 30-year-old opponent, who has never been the full 12 rounds, believes he will upset the former Olympic champion and put himself in line for a world title challenge.

Gonzales said: “I’m excited to be here. It’s a big event. We’ve got an excellent gameplan and I’m extremely confident.”

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