By Michael Woods
Not all that much has changed since Caleb Truax came back to Minnesota the proud owner of the IBF super middleweight title.
Asked to offer what’s different now, Truax told BoxingScene.com very little.
“Honestly, man, there hasn’t been a change in every-day life,” the 34 year old who holds a 29-3-2 mark told me. “I just go about my business like I always do. Maybe it hasn't set in yet? Not sure.”
“IT” is the fact that he messed up some well laid plans set by fighter James DeGale (23-2-1; age 31) and promoter Frank Warren, who thought they’d invited a “stay busy” sort to England for a Dec. 9 rust-shedder.
“I’ve had to turn down a lot of free drink offers, though. I can get used to that,” Truax, 2-2 in his last four preceding, said, chuckling.
But this is a pro’s pro, who won’t be taking advantage of that one perk advanced by charmed neighbors. Because he knows it’s time to capitalize on the upset special, one of the ten top most shockers in the pugilism sphere this year.
Some of the bookies in the UK had Truax listed as a 100-1 underdog, but he managed to hurt DeGale badly in the fifth round and never took his foot off the gas. After twelve rounds, Truax walked away with a majority decision win over DeGale and the IBF title.
Any idea on what’s next?
“Talk of a rematch, but I'm not sure,” Truax said. “I’ll let them sort it out and hope to know something after the holidays. I’m 100% open to it. Just pay me,” he stated, spoken like a true pro’s pro.
Warren recently told BoxingScene that a rematch with Truax will be pursued in 2018, while the existence of a rematch clause was confirmed.
Both Truax and DeGale are advised by Al Haymon.
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