James DeGale, the celebrated Olympic gold medallist, was the favourite against George Groves and yet Groves, guided by Booth and Paddy Fitzpatrick, earned a narrow decision over his long-term rival that propelled his career and stalled DeGale’s. Six weeks later Haye, also the underdog against Wladimir Klitschko, ultimately disappointed on the occasion of a fight so defining that memories of that night perhaps unfairly undermine his previous achievements. The ecstasy and the agony likely did much to continue shaping a lower-key, mellower Booth who is no less passionate and committed to his fighters’ success. Should Adeleye surprise many by defeating Hrgovic then the attention of Booth, his trainer, will immediately return to Kelly. Even if he doesn’t, as with Kelly after his defeat in 2021 by David Avenesyan, Booth can be expected to attempt to continue shaping Adeleye, and to reflect on risking his progress against so dangerous a puncher with minimal regret.
