Olympic gold medallist DeGale headlined BKFC 81 in Manchester on Saturday night, taking on Australian Matty Floyd.

In a fight marred by spoiling tactics from DeGale’s opponent, the former IBF super middleweight champion cruised to victory, aided by three point deductions for Floyd.

Not pleased by Floyd’s headbutts among other ‘dirty tactics’, a statement released on behalf of DeGale said that the sport of bare-knuckle was not the two-time world champion’s cup of tea.

The statement read: “Thank you all so much for the support for James.

“He got the win but came out battered and bruised after a brutal fight with some dirty tactics. 

“The Manchester crowd’s energy was incredible and gave him a real lift. BKFC ran a great event and we respect them, but bare-knuckle isn’t for him. Boxing’s discipline and respect will always be his standard.”

DeGale himself followed up with a post on Instagram hinting at a return to the sweet science. His post read: “Massive respect to BKFC and the fighters — it’s a brutal sport! Matty Floyd showed that with headbutts, low blows, and rabbit punches. Back to boxing for me!”

The statement and further comments on social media mark a complete 180 from DeGale’s post-fight interview, where he claimed: “This is crazy stuff! But do you know what? I’m 1-0 in bare knuckle and that’s all that matters. JD’s second coming!”

BKFC investor Conor McGregor implored DeGale to continue in the sport, telling the 39-year-old: “Welcome to a legend. Go do it - become a two-sport world champion.”

DeGale last competed in professional boxing in 2019, losing to domestic rival Chris Eubank Jr in a bout for the IBO super middleweight title, a minor world championship. After winning gold at the 2008 Olympics, DeGale turned professional in 2009, winning 25 contests, losing three bouts, and sharing one draw across a decade of boxing.

Watch the biggest fights and best fighters with a DAZN subscription

A DAZN subscription provides access to over 185 fights a year across a range of combat sports from the world's best promoters.

For pricing and more information, click here