DeGale set for Liverpool showdown

James DeGale will challenge Poland’s Piotr Wilczewski for the European super-middleweight title at the Liverpool Echo Arena on 15 October, it has been confirmed.

It will be DeGale’s first fight since losing his British title – and unbeaten professional record – against his bitter rival and fellow west Londoner George Groves in May.

The tough Wilczewski, who turns 33 on Thursday, has lost only one of his 30 fights and is ranked two in the world by the WBO.

DeGale’s promoter Frank Warren has described the bout as a “must-win fight” for the Harlesden man, who believes a victory could put him in line for a world title challenge.

“The Groves fight is totally out of my system and I’m totally focused on becoming European champion,” said DeGale.

“It’s against a guy who will come to fight. He’s a tough guy but technically good as well. This will be by far the toughest fight of my career.”

The clash will be on the undercard of Nathan Cleverly’s defence of his WBO light-heavyweight title against Liverpool’s Tony Bellew.

“We originally planned to have James’ fight in London, but I want him in there as soon as possible and this was the best way,” said Warren.

“If he wins this European title – which I believe he will – then I want him to fight again before the end of the year. That wouldn’t have been possible if we’d waited until the end of October to have this fight.”