James DeGale has recorded a third-round stoppage against Marco Antonio Periban to guarantee his shot at the IBF super-middleweight title next year.
The 2008 Olympic champion became the first boxer to stop the 30-year-old Mexican and there appeared to be ominous signs when DeGale landed a hefty right hook in the opening minute of the fight.
The Briton floored his opponent 30 seconds into the third round by landing a looping left hand on Periban.
After a brief combination of punches, DeGale's opponent was sent crashing to the canvas and, despite trying to beat the count, referee Howard Foster decided to end the contest.
After his victory, DeGale took time to call out current IBF title holder Carl Froch, who was at the Echo Arena, and labelled the fighter a "coward" for not taking him on.
Froch has until December 31 to decide whether to defend his belt against DeGale or vacate to fulfil his ambition of fighting in Las Vegas.
Chris O'Keefe
