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James DeGale v Chris Eubank Jr. heading for January date

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James DeGale versus Chris Eubank Jr. has been pushed back until January, World Boxing News has learned.

The attractive all-UK match-up was due to take place in December but will now happen in the New Year.

WBN understands from a source close to Degale that the former world champion is training hard to face Eubank at a venue to be announced in London.  ITV Box-Office are understood to be the broadcaster.

One-time IBO ruler Eubank recently returned to the win column on the WBSS final undercard. Eubank defeated JJ McDonagh with relative ease in Saudi Arabia.

The long-awaited super-middleweight clash has been on the cards for some time, with December originally touted. The Capital’s O2 Arena is the frontrunner to host.

James DeGale vs Chris Eubank Jr

Recently addressing the prospect of trading blows with Eubank Jr. in his next bout, DeGale spoke to Premier Boxing Champions.

“Domestically, it’s a massive fight. I believe that our styles will gel, and with a lot on the line, it will make a great fight,” predicted the Olympic Gold Medallist.

“Eubank relies on his engine and his work rate to get him through. But he struggles every time he steps up in competition.

“He’s been calling me out since he was an amateur. So I will finally be getting a chance to use my skills and experience to outclass him and to shut him up.”

MUST-WIN

DeGale made a low-key return to action recently after taking the decision to drop his IBF belt having been ordered to face Jose Uzcategui.

‘Chunky’ is hoping to become a three-time world title holder in 2019. DeGale is aware time is fast running out at 32 following a hard career.

A win over Eubank would give the talented Londoner the opportunity to push for honors in the latter part of 2019.

For Eubank, the clash is certainly must-win. Following a bitter loss to George Groves, the Brighton man can ill-afford another reverse.

With the likes of Callum Smith, Canelo Alvarez and Gennady Golovkin all 168 possibilities for either boxer in the near future, the anticipated British battle takes on enhanced significance.

Phil Jay is the Editor of World Boxing News. Follow on Twitter @PhilDJay.