• Super-middleweight

DeGale batters Demers and sets sights on world title

ESPN staff
May 18, 2013
James DeGale is thinking big after crushing Sebastien Demers © PA Photos
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James DeGale has vowed to get his hands on a world title by the end of the year after making a blistering North American debut with victory over Sebastien Demers.

The 2008 Olympic champion has been steadily repairing his reputation since his defeat to George Groves and he made a positive impression on a new audience with a second round success in Canada.

DeGale, in his first fight since December, looked sharp from the first bell and stung Demers - who took the fight only this week - with some crisp shots.

Demers had not fought since 2011 and had no answer to the speed and power of DeGale who put his man down in the second round with a stinging uppercut. Demers had nothing to come back with, prompting the referee to wave off the fight.

DeGale, who was claiming his 15th professional win with the stoppage of Demers in Quebec, is ready to step up in class and challenge the best in the business at super-middleweight.

"I wasn't messing around," Degale said on WealthTV. "I got in there and he felt too slow and I could see the shots coming so I opened up on him

"The finishing shot was a nice uppercut. We've been working on the inside and I'm learning in the gym every day.

"Give me a couple more fights to keep the momentum going and I'm willing to fight anyone.

"I will be a world champion by the end of this year."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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