Former champion James DeGale returns to the ring: where to watch the fight without gloves.

According to The Sun: Two-time world boxing champion under the IBF in the super middleweight division James DeGale returns to professional sports almost seven years after retiring from his career.

This time he faces a new challenge - bare-knuckle boxing. In this article, we will get to know the boxer known by the nickname 'Chunky', his wife Grace, and their family.

Who is James DeGale?

James DeGale is a British former professional boxer who competed from 2009 to 2019.

Born on February 3, 1986, in Hammersmith, London, he began boxing at the age of 10.

Training in local boxing clubs, he earned the nickname 'Chunky', which became his trademark throughout his career.

Before turning professional, he had a successful amateur career, culminating in a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics.

DeGale is known for his elegant boxing style and versatility, capable of fighting in both orthodox and southpaw stances.

He won his first world title in 2015 by defeating Andre Dirrell in Boston for the vacant IBF title in the super middleweight division.

This success made him the first British boxer to win both Olympic gold and a professional world title.

He successfully defended this title against opponents such as Lucian Bute and Rogelio Medina.

After losing the IBF title to Caleb Truax in 2017, he avenged the loss and reclaimed the title in 2018, but later vacated it.

DeGale's career also included memorable fights against British rivals such as George Groves.

When is James DeGale fighting next?

DeGale will debut in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC) on September 27, 2025, at the AO Arena in Manchester.

He will compete against Australian Matt Floyd, who has a professional record of 15-2-0.

Although bare-knuckle boxing requires a different skill set and is considered more brutal, DeGale's boxing experience should benefit him.

DeGale announced his return via social media:

“UK I’m back. This time the gloves are off.

“Everyone asking what version you’re getting… 7 years out, body healed, mind sharp — it’s the best one yet.

“Demolition pending. See you in the circle @bareknucklefc.”

James DeGale's return to professional sports, especially to the world of bare-knuckle boxing, has generated considerable interest, as he holds the principle that there is always room for new challenges in sports. His experience gained in the ring over many years may not only be key to success in the new discipline but will also attract fans of boxing and his competitors. The landscape of boxing continues to evolve, and everyone is looking forward to how the participants will react to the former champion's return.