Upbeat DeGale eyeing title showdown

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James DeGale says he is relishing the prospect of a fresh start under new promoter Mick Hennessy and is targeting a world title shot next year.

Harlesden’s former Olympic champion, 26, defends his European super-middleweight title against Hadillah Mohoumadi of France at Glow, Bluewater, on Saturday.

It will be only his second fight since he won the belt by beating Poland’s Piotr Wilczewski a year ago.

With a long-running dispute with his former promoter Frank Warren finally resolved, DeGale is set for his first appearance since signing with Hennessy – and his debut on Channel 5.

DeGale told West London Sport: “I really can’t wait to get back in the ring.

“It’s been a frustrating year but I’ve put that behind me and it’s exciting because now I’m making a fresh start.

“The main thing is that I’m going to be busy. The plan is to defend my title this weekend and then fight again in December.

“To be the European champion and have one fight in 12 months is crazy, so it’s been very frustrating, and all the rubbish outside the ring with Frank Warren drove me mad.

“But I’ve been professional and kept dedicated, and I’m just excited that I’ve signed this deal with Mick Hennessy and I’m on terrestrial television with Channel 5.”

And DeGale insists his main aim for 2013 is a world title challenge and not a rematch with arch rival and fellow West Londoner George Groves, who edged a close points decision when the pair met in May last year.

Nottingham’s IBF champion Carl Froch – previously promoted by Hennessy – has been mooted as a future opponent.

Another possible option is rugged German Arthur Abraham, who holds the WBO title.

“In a couple of fights’ time I should be ready to mix it with the big boys. A couple more defences and I’ll be ready for people like Carl Froch and Arthur Abrahams,” DeGale declared.

“I don’t need George Groves. He needs me and that’s a fact. People keep bringing it up and asking me because our fight was controversial and a lot of people thought I won.

“I’m on terrestrial telly, I’m European champion and I’m doing my thing. Where is he? He’s just given up the British title.

“I’m getting on with my career and I’m looking to fight the best guys out there. It should be an exciting couple of years.”

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