Champions, James DeGale and Lee Selby will now defend their IBF crowns on home soil on a blockbuster night of action at the Copperbox arena, the bill will also feature rising stars Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois.
“To be defending my World Title in my home city is a dream come true,” said DeGale. “I have made my name as a road warrior but now it is time to remind everyone at home who the best Super-Middleweight in the World is.” DeGale seems keen to make a statement after the attention in his super middleweight division has drifted toward the WBSS tournament recently, a tournament which DeGale opted out of as he was still focused on rehabilitation from injury.
“I haven’t showcased my skills in the UK since 2014 and I’m looking forward to putting on a memorable performance for the people of London and everyone tuning in at home on BT Sport and BoxNation … I’m back in full training and feeling fit and ready to go on December 9. Fans can look forward to an explosive performance, I’m itching to get under those bright lights again!” DeGale concluded.
“I can’t wait to return to the ring on a huge night of boxing,” said IBF Featherweight kingpin Selby. “There’s some terrific fighters featuring on the bill but I’ll be stealing the show and ending 2017 in style.” Selby has not been in action since July where he won a decision over Johnathan Barros. Selby is now focused on ticking over before realigning his focus toward domestic rival Josh Warrington in 2018.
“I will definitely be fighting my mandatory challenger Josh Warrington after I come through this fight. To me he is just another opponent, but I think he’s got emotionally attached to me.” Selby said when he touched on the inevitable clash with Warrington and shared a stern warning for him “I will give him an educated lesson and then move on!”
Promoter Frank Warren shared his view “I am delighted James and Lee are showcasing their talents on our last big show in London this year. I expect it to be a special night for James, defending his World Title in his home city for the first time. Selby is a class operator and should he come through this fight, we will be looking to make the long-awaited fight with Josh in 2018. Rising stars Anthony Yarde and Daniel Dubois will also feature on this unmissable card and I know fans will be in for a real treat.”