By Ryan Burton

A press release was recently sent out that announced IBF super middleweight champion James DeGale would vacate his title. DeGale stated that he was going to focus his energies on securing other opportunities - like a rematch with George Groves or a rumored domestic clash with Billy Joe Saunders.

The boxing world was stunned last December when DeGale lost to heavy underdog Calex Truax in the United Kingdom in one of the biggest upsets of 2017.

DeGale was able to recapture his title in April when he won a unanimous decision in their rematch.

The British fighter was obligated by the IBF to face interim champion Jose Uzcategui in his next fight but DeGale opted to avoid the hard hitting Venezuelan.

BoxingScene.com recently caught up with Uzcategui’s agent to get his thoughts on DeGale’s decision. 

“I would like to say James DeGale is a real warrior and a class act! James represented his country in the Olympics, winning a gold medal. He went in search of a world title and won it on the road in Boston. James went on to defend his world title belt numerous times even to the point where he gave up a tooth in the 11th round versus Badou Jack in retaining his world title in that fight,” Gibbons told BoxingScene.com.

“Jose would have loved the opportunity to fight James for the full belt but understands boxing is a business and no fighter is afraid of another fighter. James decided to do what was best for him and it was purely a business decision and Jose wishes James the best in the future."

The IBF subsequently elevated Uzcategui to full world champion and announced he must face #2 rated Caleb Plant in his next fight.

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