European super-middleweight champion James Degale has split from Frank Warren’s promotional stable to link up with rivals Hennessy Sports.
The 2008 Olympic gold medallist has signed a long-term contract with Mick Hennessy and all of his fights will now be broadcast exclusively on Channel 5.
DeGale will make his debut for his new promoter on October 13 when he defends his European Super Middleweight title against Hadillah Mohoumadi of France.
In a statement announcing the switch, DeGale said: “I am over the moon with my new long-term promotional deal with Hennessy Sports.
“I can’t wait to get back in the ring on October 13th and show the millions of viewers on Channel 5 what I’m all about.”
“The new beginning is a thrilling prospect, SO WATCH THIS SPACE!”
All of DeGale’s previous professional fights have been screened either on Sky Sports and BoxNation.
He has been out of action since stopping Italian fighter Cristian Sanavia in April, but the 26-year-old is now aiming to getting his career back on track with Hennessy Sports, who also looks after heavyweight Tyson Fury.
Mick Hennessy said: “I’m very excited to have signed a brilliant young talent like James Degale.
“To travel to China to fight on away turf and be the only Brit to capture an Olympic boxing gold medal in such difficult circumstances was an amazing feat.
“To already be European Champion after only 13 fights is also an amazing achievement, our goal is to nurture and enhance James extreme talent to the highest level and for him to become not only a genuine world champion but also a cross-over star worldwide.”
Hennessy has also announced that Glow, the unique 60 million events and exhibition venue at Bluewater, Kent, will be host for the night of professional boxing featuring DeGale’s debut on Saturday, October 13.
“I’m very excited to be bringing professional boxing to the Glow for the first time, it is a fantastic arena, perfect for sporting events like boxing,” added Hennessy.
“Boxing fans who attend the show will not be disappointed, the evening will not only see the 2008 Olympic gold medallist James Degale make his Channel 5 debut but they will see some of the world’s brightest young talent in action.
“Rising middleweight sensation, the Brighton based son of former world champion Chris Eubank Jr will be looking to continue his impressive unbeaten run as a professional and Kid Galahad, who I believe is the best Super Bantamweight in the country right now will be out to showcase his slick skills.
“We will also see former British champion Lightening Lenny Daws challenge the number one Finnish fighter, Ville Piispanen for the vacant EU Light Welterweight title. This title fight has the recipe to be a real barnstormer and one certainly not to be missed,” added Hennessy.
There is also a packed undercard on the night with Phill Fury, cousin of Tyson Fury, and Guildford’s Eli Matthews making his professional debut.
Mark Pougatch introduces Channel 5’s live coverage of a bumper night of boxing, starting at 10.00pm on Saturday, October 13.
The programme will also be screened in high-definition on Channel 5 HD.
Dave Farrar and Richie Woodhall will provide commentary.
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