By Jonathon Fell: A term used all too frequently and to the frustration of many boxing fans is the term “a genuine 50/50 fight” used by promoters across the world, this is clearly a very subjective opinion and some fans will take objection to this and leave them frustrated and feeling shortchanged when they do not feel it is a genuine 50/50. Some boxing fans will understand that fighters being developed such as Anthony Joshua in the UK cannot immediately be flung in to 50/50 fights this early in to a career that has huge aspirations but some fans are underwhelmed when the opponent announced isn’t a top 10 ranked fighter.
What I see as a complete 50/50 is the upcoming bout between Andre Dirrell and James DeGale taking place for the vacant IBF Super Middleweight strap in Boston, USA on May 23rd. These 2 fighters boast similar records, Dirrell 24(16) – 1 and DeGale 20(14) – 1 and both have good pedigrees through the amateurs and through their professional career. However, they have both suffered the 1 reverse each, both taking place in somewhat controversial circumstances, Dirrell suffered a points defeat to Carl Froch during the Super 6 tournament in 2009, coming in Froch’s hometown of Nottingham, some say this was the biggest hometown decision ever seen. Whilst DeGale suffered an incredibly tight points reverse to bitter rival George Groves in 2011 which again could have gone either way.
In addition to their similar records, I find that you can draw strong comparisons from their styles too. Both slick southpaws, not renowned huge punchers, more focused on their work rate and shot success. I am unsure whether this will lead to a good blend of exciting, skillful boxing or whether their styles will cancel one another out. We will have to wait and see. Other than Dirrell’s fights against Artur Abraham and the aforementioned Froch, there are no real names of note and likewise with DeGale there are no standout opponents he has faced. Gonzales and Periban his most recent opponents threatened to offer much but were handily dealt with by “Chunky”. Add to that the fact that they are the #1 and #2 challengers for this IBF belt recently vacated by Carl Froch, they will both feel that this is a golden opportunity to seize their first World Championship title and catapult themselves towards the mega fights still offered by this division.
Since DeGale signed with Eddie Hearn and Matchroom sport around 12 months ago, he has undoubtedly seemed more motivated, driven and keen to put on a performance and boost both his boxing as well as his commercial profile. Dirrell by the same token has gradually risen back up the rankings following some niggling injuries suffered during the Super Six event. From all that has been discussed here, it is impossible to see this fight as anything other than a 50/50 contest. I genuinely would not be surprised no matter what the outcome, Dirrell has home advantage, yes, but DeGale gets the opportunity of an away win similar to that of Darren Barker and Kell Brook over the past few years which he will know would be an incredible feeling that must drive him further as well as his burning desire to be the first British Olympic and World Champion. If I had to call this fight I would lean towards a Dirrell decision but hope that DeGale can prove me wrong and bring that belt back to Britain.
Comments are closed.