DeGale weighs up professional offer

Last Modified: 06 Oct 2008
Source: ITN

Olympic boxing champion James DeGale is considering an offer to turn professional.

The middleweight expects to make a decision by the end of the month and revealed he would like to remain an amateur so he can defend his title at the London Olympics in 2012.

He plans to discuss his decision with his parents and the Great Britain boxing coach Terry Edwards but the money may prove too good to refuse.

He said: "It is way over £1 million, nearly £2 million over a couple of years.

"If I do or do not go over everyone will soon find out.

"I can go professional and secure the rest of my life. Mum and Dad have a big say. They are a big part of my life. They just want the best for me but I do want to defend my crown in my own country. That is a big draw for me."

It is not clear if Edwards will remain as Great Britain coach for the next four years but DeGale hopes he will lead the team in London.

He said: "He has proved himself. He is like a second dad to us.

"When he has to be hard, he is hard. It is the whole vibe and communication with him that just works. It would be nice if he could stay."

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