Frank Maloney Boxing: Sutherland Not Obsessed With DeGale

Darren Sutherland refused to become obsessed with James DeGale despite the Londoner’s Olympic success against the Dubliner.

Beijing bronze medallist, Sutherland (2-0) bids to better DeGale at Fenton Manor Sports Complex, Stoke-on-Trent on Friday when he faces Vepkhia Tchilaia in a super-middleweight six rounder.

The Georgian (9-9) took DeGale the distance in February and Sutherland said: “I’m trying not to get too involved in a rivalry with James.”

Sutherland who beat DeGale four times as an amateur added: “If James and I meet in the future I will treat him like any other opponent. Although I would like to do a better job on Tchilaia.”

Promoter Frank Maloney said: “We’re not obsessed with James DeGale. If the fight happens, then great. But if not, I won’t care.”

Top of the talent crammed card is local hero Chris Edwards (12-13-3) who defends his British and Commonwealth flyweight title against Derby’s Usman Ahmed (5-1-1)

In the chief support Dewsbury’s Gary Sykes (11-0) meets Manchester’s Anthony Crolla (13-1) in an eliminator for the British super-featherweight title held by Kevin Mitchell.

Also on the top class bill, is the world’s tiniest fighter Liverpool’s, Paul Lowe who is just 4ft 8in tall. He faces fellow debutant Kyle Anthony King

Tickets (£35 and £75) for the show are available from www.frankmaloney.com and 0871 226 1508.