James DeGale believes a victorious conclusion to four world title fights on foreign soil will establish him among Britain’s most popular champions.
The IBF super-middleweight title-holder (23-1) will unify belts with WBC champion Badou Jack (20-1-2) on Saturday in New York City, live on Sky Sports, having previously won three in a row in North America.
"I've done it the hard way - first Olympic gold medallist from Great Britain to win a world title, the 'road warrior'," DeGale exclusively told Sky Sports.
"I love that tag because I do travel. I don't care, I'll go where the biggest titles are, the accolades.
"In this country, I don't get the respect. And that's not me being stupid, or bitter about it. I have got my supporters, my fans, and I can't wait for the homecoming.
"But I'm not getting the credit. After this fight, I should get the credit. I'm coming home, trust me. Next year, a big one against Callum Smith."
DeGale beat Andre Dirrell for the IBF belt in Boston in May 2015, before defending it in Lucian Bute's adopted home of Quebec City, then against Rogelio Medina in Washington.
Liverpool's Smith is the mandatory challenger to the winner of DeGale's unification fight with Jack.
James DeGale vs Badou Jack is live on Sky Sports 1 HD on Saturday night from 2am.