American native, Caleb Truax shocked the boxing fraternity last year when he captured the IBF super-middleweight world title in London.
Truax was perceived as an overwhelming underdog in his matchup with former champion and 2008 Olympic Gold Medalist, James ‘Chunky’ DeGale. Truax put on a bullish and determined display to overwhelm a lacklustre James DeGale.
Got my belt! ππΎπΊπΈππΎ#TeamTruaxpic.twitter.com/Bm1a5j722F
— caleb truax (@GoldenCalebT) December 22, 2017
DeGale seemed very preoccupied in the build-up to his fight with Truax, with his focus very concentrated on potential rivals, George Groves and Chris Eubank Jr who were set to face off in a blockbuster WBSS semi-final.
But DeGale will have the chance to correct where he went wrong when he will face off with Truax once again on April 7th. The rematch takes place on American soil this time around at The Hard Rock Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas
“I think DeGale overlooked me last time and I think he’s doing it again this time,” said Truax.
Truax has not been impressed with what he has been hearing coming from DeGale.
Despite the fact that Truax enters the rematch scenario as the champion, the American believes that he is once again overlooking him.
“I see him already talking about fighting David Benavidez and George Groves.”
Check out https://t.co/TJo6yO7Q6j for behind-the-scenes photos from my workout Monday! Hereβs one sample. #TeamTruax#CutNoCornerspic.twitter.com/AxHVDPOSFS
— caleb truax (@GoldenCalebT) March 28, 2018
“Did he not learn his lesson the first time?”
DeGale has cited lingering injuries for being to blame for his drab performance. Truax, however, scoffed at those suggestions.
“I think his injury talk is an excuse as well. He said his arm and shoulder felt fine heading into and immediately after the fight last December. I don’t believe any of that injury talk. It means nothing to me.”
Furthermore, Truax touched on the warm welcome he has experienced since returning to his home country as a champion. Truax was quick to add too that he hasn’t allowed his newly found recognition to change who he is as a person.
“The reaction here in Minnesota has been fantastic ever since I returned from London,” said Truax.
“Everybody at home has shown me so much love;” Truax added.
βI've been busier than I used to be, but I still stay pretty low-key. I have my routine and I love just being with my 2-year-old daughter and the rest of my family and friends. I've just tried to stay true to who I am.β β IBF 168-lb Champ @GoldenCalebT
π° https://t.co/9W3XKpGv39pic.twitter.com/lxOwVCg9FZ
— Premier Boxing Champions (@premierboxing) March 27, 2018
I’ve definitely been busier than I used to be, and I suppose that comes with the territory, but I still stay pretty low-key.
I have my routine and I love just being with my two-year-old daughter and the rest of my family and friends.
Overall I’ve just tried to stay true to who I am and live the same lifestyle.”
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