Wednesday 4 July 2018 12:17, UK
James DeGale has confirmed he has vacated his IBF super-middleweight title in order to secure "big fights" in the "final chapter" of his career.
DeGale was due to defend his belt against mandatory challenger Jose Uzcategui but has instead chosen to relinquish the title, with potentially more lucrative fights on offer elsewhere.
The two-time world champion confirmed his decision in a statement on social media, which read: "Today I have relinquished my IBF World title as I look to secure big fights in the final chapter of my career.
"I've achieved so much in my career, Olympic Gold, British, European and International titles and two-time World Champion.
"This is the final phase of my career and I have a few good years left where I can be involved in massive fights and really leave a legacy in the division's history.
"My team have been working very hard behind the scenes and we've got some exciting news to announce soon."
DeGale is reportedly in contention to fight WBO middleweight champion and fellow 2008 Olympian Billy Joe Saunders at London's O2 Arena on September 15.
He could also face the winner of the upcoming World Boxing Super Series final between WBA super-middleweight champion George Groves and challenger Callum Smith.
