Ex-champion Pavlik still on DeGale’s radar
Mick Hennessy says former world champion Kelly Pavlik remains a possible future opponent for James DeGale.
The Harlesden man’s ex-promoter Frank Warren was keen for him to face Pavlik, who held the WBC and WBO middleweight titles between 2007 and 2010.
The American, 30, is trying to rebuild his career following problems outside the ring.
And Hennessy, who is now promoting DeGale, also believes the match could be made further down the line.
“I really like Pavlik but not right now. I’d like him for the future,” Hennessy told West London Sport.
“That sort of come-forward fighter – tall, aggressive and a big puncher – would suit James because he’s got brilliant reflexes and hand speed.
“Over the right period of time, maybe in a year, we’ll be looking at the likes of Pavlik.”
After a frustrating 12 months in which he fought only twice – largely because of his dispute with Warren – DeGale is eager to make up for lost time.
He recently defended his European super-middleweight crown against durable Frenchman Hadillah Mohoumadi in his first fight under Hennessy, who believes the 26-year-old is on course for a world title.
But Hennessy insists DeGale needs to pick up more experience before taking on the division’s big guns.
“James is in a great position. He’s European champion and talent-wise is already one of the best out there,” he said.
“The next step would usually be a world title fight. But that would be too quick. He needs more fights – he’s only had 14.
“I don’t want to put him into a world title fight when he’s not ready for it. I want to get him there and then I want him to win it and win it in style.
“I want him to look sensational and be a world champion for years, so I need to get him ready. It’s all about him becoming a major star of this sport.
“In terms of talent, I believe he’s ready for any of them. What he’s got to do is get used to operating at that kind of level.
“He’s got to prove he’s got the will and the tenacity. I know he will prove that, but he’s still got to be nurtured.”
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