James DeGale MBE has backed stable mate Kell Brook to rip the IBF World Welterweight title from Shawn Porter when they clash this weekend. DeGale is the star guest in the second edition of The Kugan Cassius Show exclusively available to Matchroom Fight Pass members, and ‘Chunky’ told Kugan that Kell can rise to the occasion against a man he boxed in the amateurs.
“It’s a tough fight for Kell but he’s a talented World class fighter” said DeGale. “It’s going to be difficult but I think he’s going to pull it out of the bag, I honestly do – it’s a big task to go over to America and take the title from the champion but I have every faith in him.
“I boxed Porter in November 2007 at York Hall in an England vs. USA night (DeGale won 23-4 as England triumphed 9-2 on the night). He boxed at Middleweight but at 5ft 4in he was tiny, like a little machine. He was far too small and I battered him but as a pro he’s come down to Welterweight and in his last fight against Paul Malignaggi he looked impressive. But it is Kell Brook’s time to shine and I think he will.”
The full 30 minute show is available exclusively to Matchroom Fight Pass members and the 2008 Olympic Gold medal hero weighs up a possible clash with IBF and WBA Super Middleweight king Carl Froch, reflects on a fabulous performance at Wembley against Brandon Gonzalez and assesses the domestic scene at 167lbs, including his bitter rival George Groves.
