James DeGale, known as “Chunky” in the boxing world, is a former British professional boxer who made history by becoming the first British Olympic gold medalist to win a professional world title.
His career spanned from 2009 to 2019, during which he held multiple championships and established himself as one of the top super-middleweight boxers of his era.
This article will teach you about James DeGale’s net worth, salary, career earnings, contract, stats, wife, career overview, and more.
James DeGale’s Biography
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | James Frederick DeGale |
| Nickname | Chunky |
| Born | February 3, 1986 |
| Age | 38 |
| Weight | 76 kg |
| Religion | – |
| Nationality | British |
| Height | 6′ (1.83 m) |
| Net Worth | Estimated $5-10 million |
| Salary | Varied per fight |
| Relationship Status | Unknown |
| Instagram Profile | @jamesdegale1 |
Early Career
James DeGale’s boxing journey began at the tender age of 10 when he started training at the Trojan Club.
He later moved to the Dale Youth boxing club, where he honed his skills and developed his unique switch-hitting style.
His amateur career reached its pinnacle when he represented Great Britain at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, where he won a gold medal in the middleweight division.
Professional Career
DeGale turned professional in 2009, signing with promoter Frank Warren in a deal reportedly worth £1.5 million.
His professional debut came on February 28, 2009, against Vepkhia Tchilaia, which he won by unanimous decision.
DeGale’s rise through the ranks was swift, and he captured his first regional championship, the WBA International super-middleweight title, in 2010.
DeGale successfully defended his title multiple times before losing it to Caleb Truax in a shocking upset in 2017.
However, he regained the title in a rematch with Truax in 2018, further cementing his legacy in the sport.
James DeGale’s Net Worth Details
James DeGale’s net worth is estimated to be between $5-10 million as of 2025.
Fight Purses
| Opponent | Year | Estimated Purse |
|---|---|---|
| Chris Eubank Jr. | 2019 | $1.5 million |
| Badou Jack | 2017 | $750,000 |
| Lucian Bute | 2015 | $1 million |
| Andre Dirrell | 2015 | $600,000 |
Endorsements
- Reebok (boxing equipment and apparel)
- Lonsdale (boxing gear)
- Bulk Powders (sports nutrition)
Career Records
| Opponent | Result | Year | Title(s) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chris Eubank Jr. | Loss | 2019 | IBO Super-Middleweight |
| Caleb Truax | Win | 2018 | IBF Super-Middleweight |
| Caleb Truax | Loss | 2017 | IBF Super-Middleweight |
| Badou Jack | Draw | 2017 | IBF/WBC Super-Middleweight |
| Rogelio Medina | Win | 2016 | IBF Super-Middleweight |
| Lucian Bute | Win | 2015 | IBF Super-Middleweight |
| Andre Dirrell | Win | 2015 | IBF Super-Middleweight |
| George Groves | Loss | 2011 | British/Commonwealth Super-Middleweight |
DeGale’s professional record stands at 25 wins (15 by knockout), 3 losses, and 1 draw.
FAQs
1. What major world titles did James DeGale hold in his boxing career?
DeGale became the first British boxer to win both an Olympic gold medal and a professional world title, holding the IBF super-middleweight championship twice between 2015 and 2019.
2. What is DeGale’s professional boxing record and knockout ratio?
He retired with a record of 25 wins, 3 losses, and 1 draw, scoring 15 knockouts. His resume includes high-level bouts in both the United States and the United Kingdom.
3. Which signature fights or rivals defined DeGale’s career?
Key victories include wins over Andre Dirrell (to win the IBF title), Lucian Bute, and Rogelio Medina. His rivalries with George Groves and Caleb Truax were especially notable, featuring title changes and rematches.
4. How did DeGale secure Olympic gold, and what impact did this have?
He won gold in the middleweight division at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, defeating Emilio Correa. The achievement established him as a top prospect and propelled his transition to the pro ranks.
5. How did DeGale perform in international bouts, particularly in the USA?
He became one of the few British champions to win and defend world titles on American soil, including headline fights against Andre Dirrell in Boston and a tough draw against Badou Jack in Brooklyn.
6. What notable setbacks or controversial decisions occurred in DeGale’s career?
DeGale lost a close decision to George Groves early in his career and controversially dropped the IBF belt to Caleb Truax, only to avenge the defeat in a rematch. He also drew with Badou Jack in a major championship bout.
7. What boxing style and attributes characterized DeGale in the ring?
He fought as a southpaw with slick movement, strong combinations, and deceptive power. DeGale used distance, speed, and angles to outbox opponents, thriving in technical fights.
8. Did DeGale suffer significant injuries during his career?
He endured shoulder issues, dental injuries, and facial damage—especially in wars like the Jack fight—but always returned for key matchups, showing toughness despite a taxing career.
9. How did DeGale contribute to British boxing history?
He became Britain’s first Olympic gold medalist to win a professional world title, inspiring younger fighters and helping raise the standard for future British champions in the super-middleweight class.
10. What did DeGale pursue after retirement from professional boxing?
After retiring following a loss to Chris Eubank Jr. in 2019, DeGale has remained involved in boxing as a commentator, ambassador, and advocate for youth sports in London.
