Fielding vs DeGale- Talks Ongoing

Fielding vs DeGale- Talks Ongoing:

By Michael Richards

Rocky Fielding’s trainer, Jamie Moore confirmed this week that talks are at an early stage for the new WBA Super Middleweight Champion to face off against former IBF strap holder, James DeGale. Everyone loves an all British world title fight and this one promises to be competitive and very much a crossroads fight for both men.

Rocky is clearly on the rise after his pulsating victory of previously undefeated champion Tyron Zeuge, with confidence high and his appetite for prolonged success stronger than ever. In the other corner, it can be argued that James DeGale is on a downward spiral, after less than dazzling displays since winning his world title against Andre Dirrell in 2015.

Always touted as having excellent natural ability, some believe he hasn’t reached the heights he should have done. No one can dispute what DeGale has achieved as an amateur and professional, but make no mistake Rocky Fielding will be licking his lips at the prospect of defending his world crown at a sold out Echo Arena, in front of his army of supporters.

On his day, James DeGale is as tricky as they come, a slick southpaw, with excellent ring craft. I’ve admired and supported him over the years, willing him to do well, not take rounds off and put his foot down in fights. With money his primary motivator since relinquishing his world title, I wonder whether it will be enough to overcome the ever improving Fielding. It has the makings to be an intriguing fight. Rocky knows he can hurt his opponents and DeGale, although slick, has been caught on numerous occasions over his last handful of fights. It may be a question of who wants/needs it more.

One thing is for certain if this fight is made, if Fielding wins, it’s the end of the road for DeGale and surely he will bow out of the sport. Fielding on the other hand will continue to see his stock rise and he will be surely looking for the winner of the World Boxing Super Series. If DeGale does turn back the clock and defeat Fielding, you have to feel he may still hang up his gloves. The potential of a Groves rematch is possibly the only one that could really tempt him back in the ring again.