James DeGale is one of boxing’s nice guys, endlessly polite and as open as a children’s Christmas book – and he always gives whatever his creaking body can offer in the ring. On Saturday night in Las Vegas, fit-again Chunky became a world champion for the second time, winning an ugly 12-rounder against the 34-year-old American Caleb Truax that extended his career but did little for his box‑office appeal.
In nine years as a pro, DeGale has had three British promoters – Frank Warren, Mick Hennessy and Eddie Hearn – and they all made decent if not spectacular money together. Nevertheless, he considered walking away from boxing a couple of years ago because he wasn’t getting the same shine or bucks as some of his rivals, notably George Groves, whom he has never much liked, and Chris Eubank Jr, about whom he cares little.
Related: James DeGale wins back IBF super middleweight title from Caleb Truax
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