Thursday 11 August 2016 14:45, UK
James DeGale should bow to public demand and face George Groves in a rematch, says the Hammersmith fighter's promoter Kalle Sauerland.
IBF champion DeGale is expected to battle WBC title holder Badou Jack in a super-middleweight world title unification clash later this year, although a date and venue are yet to be confirmed.
Groves put his own career firmly back on track with last month's dominant points win over Martin Murray and the 28-year-old has already requested another fight as he attempts to rise further up the rankings.
A rematch between Groves and DeGale has failed to materialise since the 2011 British and Commonwealth title points win for 'Saint George', but Sauerland believes another domestic clash between the bitter rivals would still create huge interest.
"George is always champing at the bit, there's no respite for us there," Sauerland told Sky Sports. "He became a father for the first time and, within hours, sent me a text asking for an update on his next fight!
They don't need any belts on the line. It can be for the 'Banana-man Trophy' or anything.
"We'd do it now. People have got more interest in seeing Groves against DeGale than DeGale against Badou Jack, although that is a good fight. But let's not cut corners, the fight people want to see is Groves-DeGale.
"They don't need any belts on the line. It can be for the 'Banana-man Trophy' or anything.
"It's a real grudge fight that's been building since George beat him a few years ago. They know our telephone numbers and we could find a solution, but it takes two to tango."
