James DeGale’s Bare-Knuckle Boxing Debut
In an unexpected twist during James DeGale‘s emergence into bare-knuckle boxing, Conor McGregor managed to overshadow the former Olympic champion’s hard-earned victory against Matt Floyd. The contest, held in Manchester, was marred by a familial grudge, igniting a fierce exchange of punches right from the start. DeGale, a distinguished Olympian and IBF former world champion, faced Floyd in a match characterized by intense hostility.
Fight Highlights
During the third round, DeGale found himself on the canvas, moments after Floyd suffered serious repercussions for a flagrant headbutt, resulting in a two-point deduction. The situation grew worse for Floyd when he was penalized again for an egregiously low blow, leading him to visibly reel in pain and further complicating his standing in the fight.
As the bout progressed, even DeGale faced scrutiny from the referee, who handed him a point penalty in the fourth round as frustrations with both combatants escalated. This atmosphere of disorder was further amplified by vocal support from Liverpool’s own Lee Boyce and Tony Bellew, whose fervent commentary added to the charged environment.
Outcome and Aftermath
With the final bell, judges scored the grueling bout 48-43 on two cards and 47-44 on the third, allowing DeGale to walk away victorious and begin his bare-knuckle career with a win. Nonetheless, this debut was anything but smooth, as DeGale displayed remarkable fortitude despite the brutal nature of the event.
However, the attention shifted quickly post-fight, with McGregor, a co-owner of the BKFC, eclipsing DeGale’s moment of glory. McGregor dominated the airwaves, audibly interfering with a heartfelt tribute to Ricky Hatton while attempting to maintain the spotlight through his intrusive commentary during the aftermath.
His actions overshadowed any effort from DeGale or Floyd to discuss the contest, making it seem as if the night belonged solely to McGregor rather than the fighters who bled for their victory. This incident marked yet another instance of McGregor’s tendency to monopolize media narratives, even when the accolades should have been directed at another athlete. Though DeGale claimed victory, it was a bittersweet emergence, overshadowed by McGregor’s relentless quest for attention in the combat sports arena.
