James DeGale vacates IBF World title in bid to get '˜biggest fight' of his career

James DeGale has vacated his IBF super-middleweight title to allow him to focus on 'securing the biggest fights' available to him.
James DeGaleJames DeGale
James DeGale

The 32-year-old became the first British Olympic gold medallist to win a professional world title when in 2015 he outpointed Andre Dirrell in Boston.

He had since impressively - and unusually - defended it largely on American soil, including drawing a unification fight with Badou Jack and reclaiming his title following an unexpected defeat by Caleb Truax in London, but is expected to conclude his career in the UK.

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It seems he remains in contention to fight WBO middleweight champion and fellow 2008 Olympian Billy Joe Saunders at London’s 02 Arena on September 15.

He would also prove a logical opponent for the winner of the upcoming World Boxing Super Series final between WBA super-middleweight champion George Groves and challenger Callum Smith, or for domestic rival Chris Eubank Jnr.

“I have relinquished my IBF title as I look to secure big fights in the final chapter of my career,” DeGale wrote on social media.

“I’ve achieved so much, Olympic gold, British and European titles and becoming a two-time world champion.

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“This is the final phase of my career where I want to be involved in the biggest fights possible.

“My team have been working very hard behind the scenes and we’ve got some exciting news to announce soon.”