James DeGale plans to be Britain's next superstar

James DeGale today insisted he can be Britain's new boxing hero, writes David Smith.

The Olympic champion makes his second appearance as a professional in Belfast next Friday, and is then scheduled to head the undercard when Amir Khan fights for the WBA world light-welterweight title against Andreas Kotelnik of the Ukraine at London's 02 Arena on 27 June.

And with Joe Calzaghe retired and Ricky Hatton's career in doubt following his knock-out by Manny Pacquiao last week, DeGale said: "There is most definitely a vacancy for the next superstar, and you are looking at him.

"Amir is right there, he is one fight from being a world champion, and I am right behind him. I want to be a British champion by next year and my aim is to be knocking on the door for a world title by 2012."