By Mark Vester
2008 middleweight Olympic gold medal winner, James DeGale (2-0, 1KOs), answered his critics by coming out with a fury and stopping previously undefeated Czech fighter Jindrich Kubin (5-1, 3KOs) in the first round at the Odyssey Arena in Belfast, Northern Ireland.
There were a lot of heat on DeGale over his pro debut in February, a lackluster four-round decision win over Vepkhia Tchilaia.
DeGale was actually booed as he entered the ring. He wanted to make a statement and came out his corner by throwing power punches with both hands. Two hard rights sent Kubin down. DeGale then went to the body and began to land shots at will as the ref jumped in to stop the fight at the end of the round.
"There was a bit of booing but even before when I went out in town the Irish fans were fantastic. Don't judge me yet - maybe it's because I use my mouth a bit too much but I'm going to let these (fists) do the talking from now on," DeGale said.
"I know what I've been doing in the gym. I know where I'm going. Don't give up on me. I've got an Olympic gold medal - trust me."
Also on the card, junior welterweight prospect Frankie Gavin (2-0, 2KOs) stopped Frenchman Mourad Frarema (2-3) in three. Also in action, welterweight prospect Billy Joe Saunders (2-0, 2KOs) blew away Germany's Ronny Gabel (2-2, 2KOs) in two.
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