DeGale retains title with points win in Washington

James DeGale retained his IBF super-middleweight title by beating Mexico’s Rogelio Medina on points in Washington DC.

Harlesden’s former Olympic champion was in control for much of the fight and looked set to win by stoppage as he landed with a number of powerful shots in the early rounds.

But he was forced to dig deep during the later stages as his opponent showed great stamina and durability.

Two judges scored the bout 117-111 in DeGale’s favour, with the third giving it to him by the narrower margin of 115-113.

The win left DeGale on course for a unification clash with WBC champion Badou Jack, who kept his title with a majority draw against Lucien Bute on the same bill.