CHAMPION boxer James DeGale was put through his paces by Colchester paratroopers.

The Olympic champion was at Colchester Garrison today ahead of his super middle weight title fight in November 22.

As well as testing 3 Para boxers in the ring, he also took part in parts of parachute regiment training, including the log run, landing drills, and even ate lunch out of a field container in Friday Woods.

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He said: "They've really shown me what they're about today.

"I knew they were fit, but my God they've proved it.

"The log run was two miles non-stop and that was hard, man."

He also said he saw similarities in para training, pointing to soldiers' endurance.

He added: "These boys can go all day, whether they're at war or in the ring.

"I know from my days of amateur boxing, if you're going up against an Army boy, you know you've got to be fit, because they definitely will be."

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