Fight Predictions - Andre Dirrell vs James DeGale

Andre Dirrell (24-1, 16KO's) vs James DeGale (20-1, 14KO's)

American Olympic Bronze Medalist, Andre Dirrell returns this weekend against the UK's James DeGale in what should go down as a very solid clash. In James DeGale, fans get a glimpse of one of London's more prized pugilist possessions. His resume doesn't have the same level of depth as Dirrell's, but anyone who has seen him in the ring in the past knows that this is a talent that doesn't come to lie down, and will go out on his shield before he takes an "L". In the case of Dirrell, despite the solid Olympic run, as a professional, we haven't always gotten such stellar results. 

Only having one loss on his ledger, one would think at first sight that Dirrell was truly amongst the elite. While his talent says that he should be, past results haven't always presented the same case. During his run in the highly acclaimed "Super Middleweight Super-Six" tournament, his final results came with a bit of backlash, leaving more questions raised than questions answered. In the first round, he squared off against Carl Froch. Going into the clash, many had Froch winning, but by the end of the night, Dirrell clearly did enough to earn victory, although a point deducted in the 12th round hurt him badly on the cards.

When the final tally was read, Dirrell went down with his first pro loss. Despite the controversy, the decision was not overturned. Many thought despite the point deduction that he could have done a little more to win, but the proud American pugilist maintained that he was "robbed" in another man's homeland. In the second round of the tournament, he had a chance to remove all doubt in the mind of the fans by facing Germany's undefeated Arthur Abraham. To the surprise of many, he boxed extremely well through the first half of the fight, coasting to what appeared to be an inevitable victory.

During the second half of the bout, things wouldn't go quite as planned, as Dirrell found himself hurt and a bit battered with the final bell no where in sight. He avoided knockdown, but took a bit more punishment down the stretch than many cared to see him take. In the 11th round, after slipping on a wet canvas, Abraham punched Dirrell during what was supposed to be a brief break in action. Dirrell was unable to continue after appearing bewildered and aloof, resulting in a Disqualification of Abraham.

Although this took place in 2009, many have felt that Dirrell have never quite looked the same. If he's the talent that many have felt he would be during his famed Olympic run, he'll have to prove it this weekend, as the man across from him has rarely given a bad show, and is known for giving his very best in the face of every test. James DeGale is classic warrior. Able to box, with a mentality that's built to bang! His only loss to date came at a point in his career where some would argue he may have been tested too soon.

The loss was a close, epic battle that left fans talking for years! Since that night which was almost 6 years ago to the date, (May 21), DeGale has never tasted defeat again, and has told everyone within earshot that another loss will not come this weekend. Stylistically, DeGale will present many issues for Dirrell, who has not been tested himself on this level since his lone loss back in the same year. For the winner of this clash, big things are sure to come. Both men are well respected based on legacies that have been supported, yet not so much complete.

Fans on both sides have seen glimpses of greatness, yet have never received that one victory to validate it. Saturday night in Boston they will get their chance. When the smoke clears, like always, the creme will rise to the top! DeGale will give a great account for himself and will take the fight to Dirrell. How Dirrell responds will be the tell-all-be-all. DeGale is the more consistent fighter, but he has never faced a talent this profound. If Dirrell is at his best, he accomplishes victory at the end of this test! Trouble his, he has often failed maintain that level. Some would call it a pick-em fight. But the smart money is on Dirrell. Speed kills! And his fast hands will lead him to victory in the end.

PREDICTION: Andre Dirrell - Majority Decision