DeGale and Jack both put their 168 pound belts on the line in the Showtime clash and ‘Chunky’ believes it is his destiny to unify the division and relieve the US-based Swede of his green and gold belt.
“It’s here. The big one. The best fighting the best. Number one against number two. Badou Jack is a very good fighter. He doesn’t do anything spectacular, but he’s a complete fighter,” said DeGale.
“I have that X-factor. I’ve lost before and I’m not going to lose again. I’ve come too far in my life to lose this opportunity.
“I’m very confident in my abilities. I believe I’m the best in the division and one of the best in the world. I’ve been waiting for this fight for a long time and I’m ready to get in there.
“I think in the last three fights I’ve shown everything. I haven’t been getting the respect that I deserve. I’ve beaten everyone put in front of me. This is what I love to do.
“Me and Badou Jack are two different fighters. I think I’m going to beat him wide on the scorecards or stop him,” he added.
Jack has lost and drawn twice in his last eight fights, whilst DeGale is undefeated in thirteen since suffering his only reverse against George Groves in London.
The winner of the New Year collision is set to be recognized as the best in the division and be in a position to call the shots for the foreseeable future.
