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'''George Groves''' (born 26 March 1988) is a British former [[professional boxer]] who competed from 2008 to 2018. He held the [[WBA (Super)]] [[super-middleweight]] title from 2017 to 2018, and regionally the [[European Boxing Union|European]], [[British Boxing Board of Control|British]], and [[Commonwealth Boxing Council|Commonwealth]] super-middleweight titles between 2010 and 2014. As an [[amateur boxing|amateur]], Groves won the [[England Boxing|ABA]] [[middleweight]] title twice in 2007 and 2008.
'''George Groves''' (born 26 March 1988) is a British former [[professional boxer]] who competed from 2008 to 2018. He held the [[WBA (Super)]] [[super-middleweight]] title from 2017 to 2018. At regional level, he held multiple super-middleweight titles, including the [[European Boxing Union|European]], [[British Boxing Board of Control|British]], and [[Commonwealth Boxing Council|Commonwealth]] titles between 2010 and 2014. As an [[amateur boxing|amateur]], Groves won the [[England Boxing|ABA]] [[middleweight]] title twice in 2007 and 2008.


In March 2018, he was ranked as the world's best active super-middleweight by [[BoxRec]], ''[[The Ring (magazine)|The Ring]]'' magazine and the [[Transnational Boxing Rankings Board]].
In March 2018, he was ranked as the world's best active super-middleweight by [[BoxRec]], ''[[The Ring (magazine)|The Ring]]'' magazine and the [[Transnational Boxing Rankings Board]].
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Groves turned professional on 15 November 2008 and joined the [[Hayemaker Promotions]] stable. His first fight as a professional took place in November 2008 at [[The O2 arena (London)|The O2 Arena]], on the undercard of [[David Haye]]'s win over [[Monte Barrett]] with a six-round win over Kirill Pshonko.<ref>Chaudry, Ziad (19 November 2008) [http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/george_revelling_in_joy_of_six_1_549890 George revelling in joy of six]. Kilburn Times</ref> His next outing in February 2009, saw him score a third round stoppage over Romaric Hignard in a fight at the [[York Hall]] in [[Bethnal Green]]. He followed the victory up in March defeating Paul Samuels at the [[Echo Arena]] in [[Liverpool]], and in April travelled to [[Belfast]] to dispose of Sandor Polgar.<ref>[http://www.boxingnews24.com/2009/04/groves-destroys-polgar/ Groves destroys Polgar]. Boxingnews24 (26 April 2009). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>
Groves turned professional on 15 November 2008 and joined the [[Hayemaker Promotions]] stable. His first fight as a professional took place in November 2008 at [[The O2 arena (London)|The O2 Arena]], on the undercard of [[David Haye]]'s win over [[Monte Barrett]] with a six-round win over Kirill Pshonko.<ref>Chaudry, Ziad (19 November 2008) [http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/george_revelling_in_joy_of_six_1_549890 George revelling in joy of six]. Kilburn Times</ref> His next outing in February 2009, saw him score a third round stoppage over Romaric Hignard in a fight at the [[York Hall]] in [[Bethnal Green]]. He followed the victory up in March defeating Paul Samuels at the [[Echo Arena]] in [[Liverpool]], and in April travelled to [[Belfast]] to dispose of Sandor Polgar.<ref>[http://www.boxingnews24.com/2009/04/groves-destroys-polgar/ Groves destroys Polgar]. Boxingnews24 (26 April 2009). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>


In September 2009, following the collapse of Hayemaker's television deal with [[Setanta Sports]], Groves along with Olympic bronze medalist [[David Price (boxer)|David Price]] signed a promotional deal with veteran boxing promoter [[Frank Maloney]] who described Groves as "one of the world's best prospects". Despite signing for Maloney however, Groves would continue to be managed and trained by Hayemaker's [[Adam Booth]].<ref>[http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=21375&more=1 Groves signs with Maloney] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091004134924/http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=21375&more=1 |date=4 October 2009 }}. Eastside Boxing. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref> On 7 November 2009, following two more professional outings, Groves travelled to Germany and fought on the undercard of stablemate David Haye's [[World Boxing Association|WBA]] title win against [[Nikolai Valuev]], defeating the experienced Konstantin Makhankov in his first fight over eight rounds.{{cn|date=December 2018}}
In September 2009, following the collapse of Hayemaker's television deal with [[Setanta Sports]], Groves along with Olympic bronze medalist [[David Price (boxer)|David Price]] signed a promotional deal with veteran boxing promoter [[Frank Maloney]] who described Groves as "one of the world's best prospects". Despite signing for Maloney however, Groves would continue to be managed and trained by Hayemaker's [[Adam Booth]].<ref>[http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=21375&more=1 Groves signs with Maloney] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091004134924/http://www.eastsideboxing.com/news.php?p=21375&more=1 |date=4 October 2009 }}. Eastside Boxing. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref> On 7 November 2009, following two more professional outings, Groves travelled to Germany and fought on the undercard of stablemate David Haye's [[World Boxing Association|WBA]] title win against [[Nikolai Valuev]], defeating the experienced Konstantin Makhankov in his first fight over eight rounds.{{citation needed|date=December 2018}}


===British and Commonwealth champion===
===British and Commonwealth champion===
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====Groves vs. Paul Smith, Johnson====
====Groves vs. Paul Smith, Johnson====
In his first fight with Warren on 5 November 2011, Groves beat former British champion [[Paul Smith (boxer)|Paul Smith]] in two rounds at the Wembley Arena in London to retain his British and Commonwealth titles.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/boxing/15553781.stm | George Groves stuns Paul Smith to retain titles]. BBC Sport. (5 November 2011). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>
In his first fight with Warren on 5 November 2011, Groves beat former British champion [[Paul Smith (boxer)|Paul Smith]] in two rounds at the Wembley Arena in London to retain his British and Commonwealth titles.<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/boxing/15553781.stm George Groves stuns Paul Smith to retain titles]. BBC Sport. (5 November 2011). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>


After nine months out, Groves returned to the ring in July 2012 knocking out Mexican boxer [[Francisco Sierra]] in 2 rounds.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2012/7/28/3199189/guerrero-vs-aydin-results-george-groves-stops-francisco-sierra-sixth-round-showtime-boxing-news|title=George Groves Stops Francisco Sierra in Six|date=28 July 2012|website=badlefthook|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref> In December, Groves fought veteran former world champion [[Glen Johnson (boxer)|Glen Johnson]] at the [[ExCeL London|ExCel Arena]]. At the time of the fight, Johnson was 19 years older than Groves. Groves knocked Johnson down in the twelfth round, though Johnson appeared to fall more from being off balance. Groves won a lopsided decision after 12 rounds when the judges scored it (120-107, 120-107 & 119-109). Groves won 35 of 36 scored rounds on the three judges scorecards, gave Johnson a bad beating in the seventh round but the fight was not stopped though it could have been.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/20744741|title=George Groves beats veteran Glen Johnson on points|date=15 December 2012|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref>
After nine months out, Groves returned to the ring in July 2012 knocking out Mexican boxer [[Francisco Sierra (boxer)|Francisco Sierra]] in 2 rounds.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.badlefthook.com/2012/7/28/3199189/guerrero-vs-aydin-results-george-groves-stops-francisco-sierra-sixth-round-showtime-boxing-news|title=George Groves Stops Francisco Sierra in Six|date=28 July 2012|website=badlefthook|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref> In December, Groves fought veteran former world champion [[Glen Johnson (boxer)|Glen Johnson]] at the [[ExCeL London|ExCel Arena]]. At the time of the fight, Johnson was 19 years older than Groves. Groves knocked Johnson down in the twelfth round, though Johnson appeared to fall more from being off balance. Groves won a lopsided decision after 12 rounds when the judges scored it (120-107, 120-107 & 119-109). Groves won 35 of 36 scored rounds on the three judges scorecards, gave Johnson a bad beating in the seventh round but the fight was not stopped though it could have been.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/20744741|title=George Groves beats veteran Glen Johnson on points|date=15 December 2012|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref>


Groves fought twice in March 2013. He first knocked out Dario German Balmaceda in round 3 in London, before travelling to Germany two weeks later to stop [[Baker Barakat]] in two rounds.
Groves fought twice in March 2013. He first knocked out Dario German Balmaceda in round 3 in London, before travelling to Germany two weeks later to stop [[Baker Barakat]] in two rounds.


In May, Groves defeated 34 year old [[Noé González Alcoba|Noe Gonzalez Alcoba]] (30-2, 22 KOs) at the O2 Arena on the undercard of the [[Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler II|Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler rematch]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/8666075/george-groves-handed-south-american-noe-gonzalez-alcoba-in-may|title=George Groves handed South American Noe Gonzalez Alcoba in May|date=8 May 2013|website=Sky Sports|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref> By doing so, he claimed the vacant [[World Boxing Association|WBA Inter-Continental]] [[super middleweight]] title. Groves landed a right hand in the opening minute of the fifth round which caught Noe Gonzalez coming forward and sent him down for a count of five. Gonzalez made it to his feet, but Gonzalez stood on shaky legs as the referee waved an end to the bout. Gonzalez's corner threw in the towel almost simultaneously with the referee's stoppage.{{cn|date=October 2020}}
In May, Groves defeated 34 year old [[Noé González Alcoba|Noe Gonzalez Alcoba]] (30-2, 22 KOs) at the O2 Arena on the undercard of the [[Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler II|Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler rematch]].<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/8666075/george-groves-handed-south-american-noe-gonzalez-alcoba-in-may|title=George Groves handed South American Noe Gonzalez Alcoba in May|date=8 May 2013|website=Sky Sports|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref> By doing so, he claimed the vacant [[World Boxing Association|WBA Inter-Continental]] [[super middleweight]] title. Groves landed a right hand in the opening minute of the fifth round which caught Noe Gonzalez coming forward and sent him down for a count of five. Gonzalez made it to his feet, but Gonzalez stood on shaky legs as the referee waved an end to the bout. Gonzalez's corner threw in the towel almost simultaneously with the referee's stoppage.{{citation needed|date=October 2020}}


===World title challenges===
===World title challenges===
====Groves vs. Froch I====
====Groves vs. Froch====
{{Main|Carl Froch vs. George Groves}}
{{Main|Carl Froch vs. George Groves}}
In mid-2013 the [[International Boxing Federation|IBF]] installed Groves as the [[mandatory challenger]] to titleholder [[Carl Froch]], with a bout between them taking place on 23 November 2013 at the [[Phones4u Arena]] in [[Manchester]]; both Froch's IBF and [[List of WBA world champions|WBA super-middleweight]] titles were on the line.<ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/23421148 Carl Froch to defend titles against George Groves]. BBC Sport. (23 July 2013). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref> On 17 September, Groves parted ways with trainer Adam Booth.<ref>Dooley, Terence (17 September 2013). [http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-adam-booth-decided-part-ways--69706 "George Groves, Adam Booth Have Decided To Part Ways"]. BoxingScene. Retrieved 17 September 2013.</ref> In the fight, Froch stopped Groves in the ninth round amidst controversial circumstances. Groves was ahead on all three judges' scorecards, having dropped the champion in the first round with a hard [[counterpunch (boxing)|counter]] right hand. Many observers at ringside, including fellow boxers [[David Haye]] and [[Amir Khan (British boxer)|Amir Khan]], remarked that referee Howard Foster had stepped in too quickly during an exchange in which both fighters landed heavy punches. Given the controversial nature of the stoppage, there were immediate calls for a rematch.<ref>[http://www1.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/9039472/carl-froch-retains-titles-with-controversial-stoppage-win Carl Froch retains titles with controversial stoppage win over George Groves]. Sky Sports. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>
In mid-2013 the [[International Boxing Federation|IBF]] installed Groves as the [[mandatory challenger]] to titleholder [[Carl Froch]], with a bout between them taking place on 23 November 2013 at the [[Phones4u Arena]] in [[Manchester]]; both Froch's IBF and [[List of WBA world champions|WBA super-middleweight]] titles were on the line.<ref>[https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/23421148 Carl Froch to defend titles against George Groves]. BBC Sport. (23 July 2013). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref> On 17 September, Groves parted ways with trainer Adam Booth.<ref>Dooley, Terence (17 September 2013). [http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-adam-booth-decided-part-ways--69706 "George Groves, Adam Booth Have Decided To Part Ways"]. BoxingScene. Retrieved 17 September 2013.</ref> In the fight, Froch stopped Groves in the ninth round amidst controversial circumstances. Groves was ahead on all three judges' scorecards, having dropped the champion in the first round with a hard [[counterpunch (boxing)|counter]] right hand. Many observers at ringside, including fellow boxers [[David Haye]] and [[Amir Khan (British boxer)|Amir Khan]], remarked that referee Howard Foster had stepped in too quickly during an exchange in which both fighters landed heavy punches. Given the controversial nature of the stoppage, there were immediate calls for a rematch.<ref>[http://www1.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/9039472/carl-froch-retains-titles-with-controversial-stoppage-win Carl Froch retains titles with controversial stoppage win over George Groves]. Sky Sports. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.</ref>


On 24 January 2014, the IBF ordered a rematch between Froch and Groves, giving Froch 90 days to fight Groves or relinquish his IBF title.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/25888443|title=Carl Froch ordered to have George Groves rematch by IBF|work=BBC Sport|access-date=22 September 2014}}</ref>
On 24 January 2014, the IBF ordered a rematch between Froch and Groves, giving Froch 90 days to fight Groves or relinquish his IBF title.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/25888443|title=Carl Froch ordered to have George Groves rematch by IBF|work=BBC Sport|access-date=22 September 2014}}</ref>


====Groves vs. Froch II====
====Groves vs. Froch II====
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On 13 February 2014, it was announced by [[Eddie Hearn]] and Matchroom Boxing that Froch v Groves II would take place on 31 May 2014 at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Froch was quoted that the fight was what the 'British public want to see' and that was his reason for taking the option to give George Groves a rematch while defending his IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles. As soon as tickets went on sale, 60,000 tickets were sold in under an hour and a further 20,000 tickets were made available, making this the biggest ever attendance for a boxing match in Britain since the Second World War.<ref>[[Ben Dirs|Dirs, Ben]] (4 March 2014). [https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/26422792 "Carl Froch v George Groves: Wembley Stadium to host rematch"]. ''[[BBC Sport]]''. [[BBC]]. Retrieved 2014-03-04.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxing/10862163/Froch-vs-Groves-2-press-conference.html|title=Carl Froch vs George Groves part II press conference: live|date=29 May 2014|work=Daily Telegraph|access-date=30 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.whatsgoodonline.co.uk/sport/froch-vs-groves-rematch-wembley/|title= Carl Froch vs George Groves – The Rematch|date=30 May 2014|work=What's Good?|access-date=30 May 2014}}</ref> As in the first fight, Froch's IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles were on the line. Prior to the fight, Groves signed with German promoters [[Wilfried Sauerland|Sauerland]], on what has been described as "a long-term deal".
On 13 February 2014, it was announced by [[Eddie Hearn]] and Matchroom Boxing that Froch v Groves II would take place on 31 May 2014 at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Froch was quoted that the fight was what the 'British public want to see' and that was his reason for taking the option to give George Groves a rematch while defending his IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles. As soon as tickets went on sale, 60,000 tickets were sold in under an hour and a further 20,000 tickets were made available, making this the biggest ever attendance for a boxing match in Britain since the Second World War.<ref>[[Ben Dirs|Dirs, Ben]] (4 March 2014). [https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/26422792 "Carl Froch v George Groves: Wembley Stadium to host rematch"]. ''[[BBC Sport]]''. [[BBC]]. Retrieved 2014-03-04.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/boxing/10862163/Froch-vs-Groves-2-press-conference.html|title=Carl Froch vs George Groves part II press conference: live|date=29 May 2014|work=Daily Telegraph|access-date=30 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.whatsgoodonline.co.uk/sport/froch-vs-groves-rematch-wembley/|title= Carl Froch vs George Groves – The Rematch|date=30 May 2014|work=What's Good?|access-date=30 May 2014}}</ref> As in the first fight, Froch's IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles were on the line. Prior to the fight, Groves signed with German promoters [[Wilfried Sauerland|Sauerland]], on what has been described as "a long-term deal".


The fight was a more cagey affair than the first match, with both fighters initially looking to outbox each other. Froch was stronger in the earlier rounds, with [[Jim Watt (boxer)|Jim Watt]] unofficially scoring the earlier rounds in favour of the champion on his Sky Sports scorecard. By the end of the seventh round, both [[Richie Woodhall]] and [[Steve Bunce]] had the fight scored 4 rounds to 3 for Froch on the BBC scorecards. Groves came out fighting in the 8th round before Froch got him pinned against the ropes and delivered a right hand blow which knocked Groves out.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/31/carl-froch-v-george-groves-live|title=Carl Froch v George Groves – as it happened|date=1 June 2014|work=Guardian|access-date=4 June 2014}}</ref> The referee, Charlie Fitch, instantly called the fight, sensing Groves was clearly in no fit state to continue. It was later named [[Knockout of the Year]] by ''[[The Ring magazine|The Ring]]'' for 2014.<ref>[[Ben Dirs|Dirs, Ben]] (31 May 2014). [https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/27653629 "Carl Froch knocks out George Groves to retain world titles"]. ''[[BBC Sport]]''. [[BBC]]. Retrieved 2014-06-01.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blogtalkradio.com/world-championship-boxing/2015/02/01/ring-magazine-awards-for-2014|title=Ring Magazine Awards for 2014}}</ref>
The fight was a more cagey affair than the first match, with both fighters initially looking to outbox each other. Froch was stronger in the earlier rounds, with [[Jim Watt (boxer)|Jim Watt]] unofficially scoring the earlier rounds in favour of the champion on his Sky Sports scorecard. By the end of the seventh round, both [[Richie Woodhall]] and [[Steve Bunce]] had the fight scored 4 rounds to 3 for Froch on the BBC scorecards. Groves came out fighting in the 8th round before Froch got him pinned against the ropes and delivered a right hand blow which knocked Groves out.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/may/31/carl-froch-v-george-groves-live|title=Carl Froch v George Groves – as it happened|date=1 June 2014|work=Guardian|access-date=4 June 2014}}</ref> The referee, Charlie Fitch, instantly called the fight, sensing Groves was clearly in no fit state to continue. It was later named [[Knockout of the Year]] by ''[[The Ring magazine|The Ring]]'' for 2014.<ref>[[Ben Dirs|Dirs, Ben]] (31 May 2014). [https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/boxing/27653629 "Carl Froch knocks out George Groves to retain world titles"]. ''[[BBC Sport]]''. [[BBC]]. Retrieved 2014-06-01.</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.blogtalkradio.com/world-championship-boxing/2015/02/01/ring-magazine-awards-for-2014|title=Ring Magazine Awards for 2014|date=February 2015 }}</ref>


Groves started rebuilding towards another world title match following Froch's retirement. On 20 September 2014, he won the European and vacant [[WBC Silver|WBC silver]] super middleweight title after defeating French boxer [[Christopher Rebrassé]] via unanimous decision after 12 rounds.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2014/07/george-groves-vs-christopher-rebrasse-on-920-in-wbc-168lb-eliminator-fight-at-wembley-arena/|title=George Groves vs. Christopher Rebrasse on 9/20 in WBC 168lb eliminator fight at Wembley Arena » Boxing News|date=8 July 2014|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-US}}</ref> The scorecards were 118-110, 118-110, 117-111.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/20/george-groves-points-win-christopher-rebrasse|title=George Groves bounces back with points win over Christopher Rebrasse|last=Association|first=Press|date=20 September 2014|work=The Guardian|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/29299007|title=George Groves beats Christopher Rebrasse for European title|date=20 September 2014|work=BBC Sport|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref>
Groves started rebuilding towards another world title match following Froch's retirement. On 20 September 2014, he won the European and vacant [[WBC Silver|WBC silver]] super middleweight title after defeating French boxer [[Christopher Rebrassé]] via unanimous decision after 12 rounds.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnews24.com/2014/07/george-groves-vs-christopher-rebrasse-on-920-in-wbc-168lb-eliminator-fight-at-wembley-arena/|title=George Groves vs. Christopher Rebrasse on 9/20 in WBC 168lb eliminator fight at Wembley Arena » Boxing News|date=8 July 2014|work=Boxing News 24|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-US}}</ref> The scorecards were 118-110, 118-110, 117-111.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/sep/20/george-groves-points-win-christopher-rebrasse|title=George Groves bounces back with points win over Christopher Rebrasse|agency=Press Association|date=20 September 2014|work=The Guardian|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/29299007|title=George Groves beats Christopher Rebrasse for European title|date=20 September 2014|work=BBC Sport|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref>


Two months later, Groves was back in the ring at the [[Echo Arena Liverpool|Echo Arena]] in Liverpool on the [[Tony Bellew]] vs. [[Nathan Cleverly]] PPV undercard. Groves knocked down American boxer [[Denis Douglin]] in round 7, winning the fight via TKO and also retaining the WBC Silver super middleweight title.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/nov/23/george-groves-stops-momma-boy-denis-douglin|title=George Groves stops 'Momma's Boy' Denis Douglin to continue resurgence|date=23 November 2014|website=www.theguardian.com|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref>
Two months later, Groves was back in the ring at the [[Echo Arena Liverpool|Echo Arena]] in Liverpool on the [[Tony Bellew]] vs. [[Nathan Cleverly]] PPV undercard. Groves knocked down American boxer [[Denis Douglin]] in round 7, winning the fight via TKO and also retaining the WBC Silver super middleweight title.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2014/nov/23/george-groves-stops-momma-boy-denis-douglin|title=George Groves stops 'Momma's Boy' Denis Douglin to continue resurgence|date=23 November 2014|website=www.theguardian.com|access-date=24 November 2016}}</ref>


====Groves vs. Jack====
====Groves vs. Jack====
On 17 June 2015 it was announced that [[Badou Jack]] would make his first defence against mandatory challenger Groves on 22 August in Las Vegas. A venue had not been confirmed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/13215956/badou-jack-fight-george-groves-aug-22-las-vegas|title=Jack, Groves pin down Aug. 22 in Vegas for bout|work=ESPN.com|access-date=11 November 2017}}</ref> This fight was Groves' third world title challenge, having lost back to back challenges against then world champion [[Carl Froch]] in 2013 and 2014 respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/george-groves-set-for-las-vegas-showdown-with-badou-jack-for-the-wbc-title-in-august/|title=George Groves set for Las Vegas showdown with Badou Jack for the WBC title in August|date=17 June 2015|publisher=boxingnewsonline.com}}</ref> On 21 July, the fight was pushed back to instead take place on the undercard of [[Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Andre Berto]] on 12 September at the [[MGM Grand Garden Arena]]. There was no injuries as Showtime gave no reason as to why the fight was postponed. Jack was once again the underdog.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://espn.go.com/boxing/story/_/id/13296679/super-middleweight-title-bout-champion-badou-jack-challenger-george-groves-postponed|title=Title bout between champ Badou Jack, challenger George Groves postponed|date=21 July 2015|publisher=espn.go.com}}</ref> It was Groves' third fight in the US, as well as his third chance at a world title. Going into the fight, old foe James DeGale had voiced his support for Groves, as he himself had become IBF champion four months prior, and was looking forward to a potential rematch with world titles at stake. In the opening round, Jack scored a knockdown against Groves, but the latter was able to recover and rally back in what would become a competitive fight. At the end, the scorecards were [[split decision|split]] with 115–112 and 116–111 for Jack, and 114–113 for Groves. Groves felt as though he did enough to win and said, "Losing a world title fight is the worst feeling in the world."<ref>Dielhenn, James (13 September 2015). [http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/9989536/george-groves-lost-a-split-decision-to-badou-jack-for-the-wbc-super-middleweight-title "George Groves loses split decision to Badou Jack for WBC super-middleweight title"]. ''[[Sky Sports]]''. [[Sky (United Kingdom)|Sky]]. Retrieved 16 September 2015.</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/badou-jack-george-groves-was-the-toughest-opponent-of-my-career/|title=Badou Jack: George Groves was the toughest opponent of my career - Boxing News|date=7 October 2016|work=Boxing News|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/sep/12/george-groves-loses-third-world-title-fight-this-time-to-badou-jack|title=George Groves loses third world-title fight - this time to Badou Jack|last=Grand|first=Bryan Armen Graham at the MGM|date=12 September 2015|work=The Guardian|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref> In October 2016, Jack admitted that Groves was the toughest opponent he had faced in his career so far.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/badou-jack-george-groves-was-the-toughest-opponent-of-my-career/|title=Badou Jack: George Groves was the toughest opponent of my career - Boxing News|date=7 October 2016|work=Boxing News|access-date=11 November 2017|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 17 June 2015 it was announced that [[Badou Jack]] would make his first defence against mandatory challenger Groves on 22 August in Las Vegas. A venue had not been confirmed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/13215956/badou-jack-fight-george-groves-aug-22-las-vegas|title=Jack, Groves pin down Aug. 22 in Vegas for bout|work=ESPN.com|access-date=11 November 2017}}</ref> This fight was Groves' third world title challenge, having lost back to back challenges against then world champion [[Carl Froch]] in 2013 and 2014 respectively.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/george-groves-set-for-las-vegas-showdown-with-badou-jack-for-the-wbc-title-in-august/|title=George Groves set for Las Vegas showdown with Badou Jack for the WBC title in August|date=17 June 2015|publisher=boxingnewsonline.com}}</ref> On 21 July, the fight was pushed back to instead take place on the undercard of [[Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Andre Berto]] on 12 September at the [[MGM Grand Garden Arena]]. There was no injuries as Showtime gave no reason as to why the fight was postponed. Jack was once again the underdog.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/boxing/story/_/id/13296679/super-middleweight-title-bout-champion-badou-jack-challenger-george-groves-postponed|title=Title bout between champ Badou Jack, challenger George Groves postponed|date=21 July 2015|publisher=[[ESPN]]}}</ref> It was Groves' third fight in the US, as well as his third chance at a world title. Going into the fight, old foe James DeGale had voiced his support for Groves, as he himself had become IBF champion four months prior, and was looking forward to a potential rematch with world titles at stake. In the opening round, Jack scored a knockdown against Groves, but the latter was able to recover and rally back in what would become a competitive fight. At the end, the scorecards were [[split decision|split]] with 115–112 and 116–111 for Jack, and 114–113 for Groves. Groves felt as though he did enough to win and said, "Losing a world title fight is the worst feeling in the world."<ref>Dielhenn, James (13 September 2015). [http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/9989536/george-groves-lost-a-split-decision-to-badou-jack-for-the-wbc-super-middleweight-title "George Groves loses split decision to Badou Jack for WBC super-middleweight title"]. ''[[Sky Sports]]''. [[Sky (United Kingdom)|Sky]]. Retrieved 16 September 2015.</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/badou-jack-george-groves-was-the-toughest-opponent-of-my-career/|title=Badou Jack: George Groves was the toughest opponent of my career - Boxing News|date=7 October 2016|work=Boxing News|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2015/sep/12/george-groves-loses-third-world-title-fight-this-time-to-badou-jack|title=George Groves loses third world-title fight - this time to Badou Jack|last=Grand|first=Bryan Armen Graham at the MGM|date=12 September 2015|work=The Guardian|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref> In October 2016, Jack admitted that Groves was the toughest opponent he had faced in his career so far.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/badou-jack-george-groves-was-the-toughest-opponent-of-my-career/|title=Badou Jack: George Groves was the toughest opponent of my career - Boxing News|date=7 October 2016|work=Boxing News|access-date=11 November 2017|language=en-US}}</ref>


===Rebuilding career===
===Return to the ring===
Following his third failed attempt at claiming a world title, Groves had to start over. He hired Shane McGuigan as his new trainer. On 30 January 2016 Groves fought at the Copper Box in London against fringe Italian contender [[Andrea Di Luisa]] (18-3, 14 KOs). Di Luisa was down and given a count in the 4th round and down again twice in the 5th round before the towel is thrown in from his corner resulting in a TKO victory for Groves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/george-groves-defeats-andrea-di-luisa-in-round-five-as-brit-returns-with-a-bang-a3169216.html|title=George Groves defeats Andrea Di Luisa in round five as Brit returns with a bang|date=30 January 2016|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref>
Following his third failed attempt at claiming a world title, Groves had to start over. He hired Shane McGuigan as his new trainer. On 30 January 2016 Groves fought at the Copper Box in London against fringe Italian contender [[Andrea Di Luisa]] (18-3, 14 KOs). Di Luisa was down and given a count in the 4th round and down again twice in the 5th round before the towel is thrown in from his corner resulting in a TKO victory for Groves.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.standard.co.uk/sport/george-groves-defeats-andrea-di-luisa-in-round-five-as-brit-returns-with-a-bang-a3169216.html|title=George Groves defeats Andrea Di Luisa in round five as Brit returns with a bang|date=30 January 2016|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref>


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In May, it was announced that Groves would meet domestic rival and former four-time world title challenger [[Martin Murray (boxer)|Martin Murray]] in a WBA super middleweight title eliminator on 25 June at the O2 Arena on the [[Anthony Joshua vs. Dominic Breazeale]] undercard live on Sky Box Office. Both fighters were delighted that the fight was made. Murray made weight on second attempt.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10257763/george-groves-vs-martin-murray-on-aj-bill-at-the-o2|title=George Groves vs Martin Murray on Anthony Joshua bill at The O2|date=6 May 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref> After a long battle, Groves defeated Murray via a 12-round unanimous decision. The three judges scored the fight at 118-110, giving Murray only two rounds. Groves hurt Murray with big right hands in rounds 7, 9 and 12. Murray had Groves looking hurt in the 10th after hitting him with a left hook to the head. Both fighters looked tired and ragged in the 12th round. Their conditioning looked less than to be desired at that point in the fight.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/33677/10325196/joshua-vs-breazeale-george-groves-defeats-martin-murray-on-points|title=George Groves defeats Martin Murray on points|date=26 June 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref>
In May, it was announced that Groves would meet domestic rival and former four-time world title challenger [[Martin Murray (boxer)|Martin Murray]] in a WBA super middleweight title eliminator on 25 June at the O2 Arena on the [[Anthony Joshua vs. Dominic Breazeale]] undercard live on Sky Box Office. Both fighters were delighted that the fight was made. Murray made weight on second attempt.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10257763/george-groves-vs-martin-murray-on-aj-bill-at-the-o2|title=George Groves vs Martin Murray on Anthony Joshua bill at The O2|date=6 May 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref> After a long battle, Groves defeated Murray via a 12-round unanimous decision. The three judges scored the fight at 118-110, giving Murray only two rounds. Groves hurt Murray with big right hands in rounds 7, 9 and 12. Murray had Groves looking hurt in the 10th after hitting him with a left hook to the head. Both fighters looked tired and ragged in the 12th round. Their conditioning looked less than to be desired at that point in the fight.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/33677/10325196/joshua-vs-breazeale-george-groves-defeats-martin-murray-on-points|title=George Groves defeats Martin Murray on points|date=26 June 2016|website=Sky Sports|access-date=25 November 2016}}</ref>


On 18 November 2016, Groves was set to defend his International title for a second time, this time against German boxer [[Eduard Gutknecht]] (30-4-1, 13 KOs). Gutknecht had previously challenged once for the world super middleweight title and once the world light heavyweight title. The fight took place at the [[Wembley Arena]] in London. In a one-sided fight, Groves defeated Gutknecht by 12 round unanimous decision title. The judges scored it (119-110, 119-109 and 119-109) all in favour of Groves. Groves showed good boxing skills in surviving an early attack from Gutknecht in the first three rounds. Groves had to take some hard power shots and jabs. In round 9, Gutknecht took a lot of heavy blows from Groves. At the end of the round, Gutknecht’s right eye was badly swollen and almost completely shut. Gutknecht was able to catch Groves with some hard jabs that got his attention in the 9th. Gutknecht was no longer throwing power shots, which at this point was what he needed to win the rounds. Gutknecht collapsed in the dressing room following the bout and was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery for swelling to the brain.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/38034265|title=George Groves retains title, opponent Eduard Gutknecht taken to hospital|date=19 November 2016|newspaper=BBC Sport|language=en-GB|access-date=26 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/nov/19/eduard-gutknecht-undergoes-surgery-after-george-groves-fight|title=Eduard Gutknecht undergoes surgery after George Groves fight|last=Association|first=Press|date=19 November 2016|newspaper=The Guardian|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|access-date=26 November 2016}}</ref> The fight, which took place on [[Channel 5 (UK)|Channel 5]] on Friday night, averaged 780,000 viewers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-top-30/|title=Weekly top 30 programmes {{!}} BARB|website=www.barb.co.uk|language=en-GB|access-date=12 May 2018}}</ref>
On 18 November 2016, Groves was set to defend his International title for a second time, this time against German boxer [[Eduard Gutknecht]] (30-4-1, 13 KOs). Gutknecht had previously challenged once for the world super middleweight title and once the world light heavyweight title. The fight took place at the [[Wembley Arena]] in London. In a one-sided fight, Groves defeated Gutknecht by 12 round unanimous decision title. The judges scored it (119-110, 119-109 and 119-109) all in favour of Groves. Groves showed good boxing skills in surviving an early attack from Gutknecht in the first three rounds. Groves had to take some hard power shots and jabs. In round 9, Gutknecht took a lot of heavy blows from Groves. At the end of the round, Gutknecht’s right eye was badly swollen and almost completely shut. Gutknecht was able to catch Groves with some hard jabs that got his attention in the 9th. Gutknecht was no longer throwing power shots, which at this point was what he needed to win the rounds. Gutknecht collapsed in the dressing room following the bout and was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery for swelling to the brain.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/38034265|title=George Groves retains title, opponent Eduard Gutknecht taken to hospital|date=19 November 2016|newspaper=BBC Sport|language=en-GB|access-date=26 November 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2016/nov/19/eduard-gutknecht-undergoes-surgery-after-george-groves-fight|title=Eduard Gutknecht undergoes surgery after George Groves fight|agency=Press Association|date=19 November 2016|newspaper=The Guardian|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077|access-date=26 November 2016}}</ref> The fight, which took place on [[Channel 5 (UK)|Channel 5]] on Friday night, averaged 780,000 viewers.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-top-30/|title=Weekly top 30 programmes {{!}} BARB|website=www.barb.co.uk|language=en-GB|access-date=12 May 2018}}</ref>


===WBA (Super) super-middleweight champion===
===WBA (Super) super-middleweight champion===
====Groves vs. Chudinov====
====Groves vs. Chudinov====
On 7 December 2016, Groves confirmed via his [[Twitter]] account that he will challenge [[Fedor Chudinov]] for the vacant [[List of WBA world champions|WBA super middleweight]] title. This would be his 4th attempt at a world title. Although the venue wasn't confirmed via his Twitter, Groves stated he would like to fight in London. Sauerland Events confirmed they had until 5 January 2017 to agree on a deal.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/38235477|title=George Groves 'to fight' Fedor Chudinov for WBA title|date=7 December 2016|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=7 December 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-fedor-chudinov-vacant-wba-title-ordered--111493|title=Groves vs. Chudinov ordered by WBA for vacant title|date=7 December 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 December 2016}}</ref> On 8 April, Kalle Sauerland tweeted that an agreement was signed for the fight to take place in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-fedor-chudinov-announced-next-week--115431|title=George Groves vs. Fedor Chudinov To Be Announced Next Week - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=9 April 2017}}</ref> On 20 April, it was announced that the fight would take place at [[Bramall Lane]] in Sheffield on 27 May as part of the undercard of Brook-Spence PPV.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/39653335|title=George Groves faces Fedor Chudinov for WBA title on Kell Brook undercard|date=20 April 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=20 April 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> A day later, the WBA announced an immediate rematch between their 'Regular' title holder [[Tyron Zeuge|Tyron Zeage]] and [[Isaac Ekpo|Isaac Epko]] after their initial fight ended in a technical decision win for Zeage in the early rounds. The winner of both fights would then need to meet in order to decide one titleholder, as part of WBA's plans to reduce the number of world titles per division.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/wba-groves-vs-chudinov-zeuge-vs-ekpo-ii-winners-fight--115829|title=WBA: Groves vs. Chudinov, Zeuge vs. Ekpo II - Winners Must Fight - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=21 April 2017}}</ref>
On 7 December 2016, Groves confirmed via his [[Twitter]] account that he would challenge [[Fedor Chudinov]] for the vacant [[List of WBA world champions|WBA super middleweight]] title. This would be his 4th attempt at a world title. Although the venue wasn't confirmed via his Twitter, Groves stated he would like to fight in London. Sauerland Events confirmed they had until 5 January 2017 to agree on a deal.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/38235477|title=George Groves 'to fight' Fedor Chudinov for WBA title|date=7 December 2016|website=BBC Boxing|access-date=7 December 2016}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-fedor-chudinov-vacant-wba-title-ordered--111493|title=Groves vs. Chudinov ordered by WBA for vacant title|date=7 December 2016|website=Boxing Scene|access-date=7 December 2016}}</ref> On 8 April, [[Kalle Sauerland]] tweeted that an agreement was signed for the fight to take place in the UK.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-fedor-chudinov-announced-next-week--115431|title=George Groves vs. Fedor Chudinov To Be Announced Next Week - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=9 April 2017}}</ref> On 20 April, it was announced that the fight would take place at [[Bramall Lane]] in Sheffield on 27 May as part of the undercard of Brook-Spence PPV.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/39653335|title=George Groves faces Fedor Chudinov for WBA title on Kell Brook undercard|date=20 April 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=20 April 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> A day later, the WBA announced an immediate rematch between their 'Regular' title holder [[Tyron Zeuge|Tyron Zeage]] and [[Isaac Ekpo|Isaac Epko]] after their initial fight ended in a technical decision win for Zeage in the early rounds. The winner of both fights would then need to meet in order to decide one titleholder, as part of WBA's plans to reduce the number of world titles per division.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/wba-groves-vs-chudinov-zeuge-vs-ekpo-ii-winners-fight--115829|title=WBA: Groves vs. Chudinov, Zeuge vs. Ekpo II - Winners Must Fight - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=21 April 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=21 April 2017}}</ref>


In his fourth attempt, Groves finally became world champion when he stopped Chudinov in round six. A barrage of punches gave referee Steve Gray no choice but to halt the fight giving Groves the win. The fight was non stop action from the opening bell. After an evenly matched first two rounds, Groves took control. Groves was cut above the eye in round four after an accidental clash of heads. The official time of stoppage was 1 minute and 14 seconds. Groves spoke to Sky Sports after the fight and credited his trainer Shane McGuigan, "This is the end of a lifetime's work. Shane McGuigan has resurrected my career. Now I'm mature enough to admit that. I feel like I'm the best in the division. I'm willing and ready to fight anyone."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40071849|title=George Groves: Briton becomes world champion with win over Fedor Chudinov|date=27 May 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=28 May 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-stops-fedor-chudinov-six-rounds-results--117007|title=George Groves Stops Fedor Chudinov in Six Rounds For WBA Title - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/19479326/george-groves-crowned-world-champion-beating-fedor-chudinov-sheffield-bramall-lane|title=Groves finally crowned a world champion|work=ESPN.com|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref> On 1 June, Groves had surgery after it was revealed that he broke his jaw in round 3 in the win against Chudinov. Groves said, That or [I] broke it from over-smiling since."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40117871|title=George Groves: WBA super-middleweight champion says he broke jaw in win|date=1 June 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref>
In his fourth attempt, Groves finally became world champion when he stopped Chudinov in round six. A barrage of punches gave referee Steve Gray no choice but to halt the fight giving Groves the win. The fight was non stop action from the opening bell. After an evenly matched first two rounds, Groves took control. Groves was cut above the eye in round four after an accidental clash of heads. The official time of stoppage was 1 minute and 14 seconds. Groves spoke to Sky Sports after the fight and credited his trainer Shane McGuigan, "This is the end of a lifetime's work. Shane McGuigan has resurrected my career. Now I'm mature enough to admit that. I feel like I'm the best in the division. I'm willing and ready to fight anyone."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40071849|title=George Groves: Briton becomes world champion with win over Fedor Chudinov|date=27 May 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=28 May 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-stops-fedor-chudinov-six-rounds-results--117007|title=George Groves Stops Fedor Chudinov in Six Rounds For WBA Title - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=27 May 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/19479326/george-groves-crowned-world-champion-beating-fedor-chudinov-sheffield-bramall-lane|title=Groves finally crowned a world champion|work=ESPN.com|access-date=28 May 2017}}</ref> On 1 June, Groves had surgery after it was revealed that he broke his jaw in round 3 in the win against Chudinov. Groves said, That or [I] broke it from over-smiling since."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40117871|title=George Groves: WBA super-middleweight champion says he broke jaw in win|date=1 June 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=1 June 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref>


===World Boxing Super Series===
===World Boxing Super Series===
{{Main article|2017 World Boxing Super Series - Super Middleweight division}}
{{Main article|2017 World Boxing Super Series - Super Middleweight division}}
On 16 June 2017, Groves announced that he would be the first super-middleweight to join the [[World Boxing Super Series]] tournament. The 8-man bracket-style elimination tournament, which would see the winner earn a grand cash prize as well as the 'greatest prize in boxing', the Muhammad Ali Trophy. The reason for joining was to prove that he is the best super-middleweight in the world. A draft gala was scheduled to take place on 8 July in Monaco to determine who Groves would fight in the quarter finals.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-signs-on-world-boxing-super-series--117599|title=George Groves Signs On For World Boxing Super Series - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/19655819/super-middleweight-champ-george-groves-enters-world-boxing-super-series|title=Champ Groves enters Super Series tourney|work=ESPN.com|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref> Groves hinted that he could possibly retire from boxing if he was to win the tournament. Groves said, “If I win this tournament I could walk away from boxing satisfied as a unified world champion.” He also said that if the next WBSS tournament took place at light heavyweight, he would be willing to move up and participate.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/george-groves-hints-at-retirement-after-world-boxing-super-series/|title=George Groves hints at retirement after World Boxing Super Series - Boxing News|date=17 July 2017|work=Boxing News|access-date=17 July 2017|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 16 June 2017, Groves announced that he would be the first super-middleweight to join the [[World Boxing Super Series]] tournament. The 8-man bracket-style elimination tournament, which would see the winner earn a grand cash prize as well as the 'greatest prize in boxing', the Muhammad Ali Trophy. The reason for joining was to prove that he is the best super-middleweight in the world. A draft gala was scheduled to take place on 8 July in Monaco to determine who Groves would fight in the quarter-finals.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-signs-on-world-boxing-super-series--117599|title=George Groves Signs On For World Boxing Super Series - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=16 June 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/19655819/super-middleweight-champ-george-groves-enters-world-boxing-super-series|title=Champ Groves enters Super Series tourney|work=ESPN.com|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref> Groves hinted that he could possibly retire from boxing if he was to win the tournament. Groves said, “If I win this tournament I could walk away from boxing satisfied as a unified world champion.” He also said that if the next WBSS tournament took place at light heavyweight, he would be willing to move up and participate.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/george-groves-hints-at-retirement-after-world-boxing-super-series/|title=George Groves hints at retirement after World Boxing Super Series - Boxing News|date=17 July 2017|work=Boxing News|access-date=17 July 2017|language=en-US}}</ref>


====Groves vs. Cox====
====Groves vs. Cox====
{{Main|George Groves vs. Jamie Cox}}
At the Draft Gala on 8 July, Groves, who was first-seeded, meaning he had the option to select his opponent, choose to fight undefeated British boxer [[Jamie Cox (boxer)|Jamie Cox]] (23-0, 13 KOs).<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40547011|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves to fight Jamie Cox in quarter-final|date=9 July 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=10 July 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Groves explained, picking Cox was a '"strategic" move and due to the tournament being long, it would be best to "pick the easy guy first".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/groves-cox-strategic-move-i-picked-easy-guy-first--118333|title=Groves: Cox Was a Strategic Move, I Picked Easy Guy First - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref> Fox was ranked #9 by the WBA at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Cox - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/groves-v-cox/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref> AG Comosa announced the fight would take place on 14 October 2017 at [[The SSE Arena, Wembley|The SSE Arena]] in [[Wembley|Wembley, London]]. Groves' WBA title would also be at stake as well the winner advancing to the semi finals against the winner of [[Chris Eubank Jr.]] and [[Avni Yıldırım|Avni Yildrim]]. Groves took back his earlier words of saying Cox was the easiest, "I know there are no easy fights in this tournament and there are no easy fights at world level, but Jamie is the guy I know the most about."<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/20145154/george-groves-jamie-cox-bout-wbss-set-oct-14-london|title=Groves-Cox bout set for Oct. 14 in London|work=ESPN.com|access-date=25 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10959846/george-groves-tournament-fight-with-jamie-cox-will-take-place-on-october-14-at-wembley-arena|title=George Groves' tournament fight with Jamie Cox will take place on October 14 at Wembley Arena|work=Sky Sports|access-date=25 July 2017|language=en}}</ref> Groves retained his title and advanced to the semi finals of the tournament in a competitive bout which came to an end in round 4. A perfectly placed right hand to the body send Cox down in pain. Referee Steve Gray counted him out at 1 minute, 42 seconds into the round. The fight started with both boxers feeling each other out and trading sporadically. Cox boxed well for the first two rounds however seemed a little reckless in doing so. Groves boxed sensibly, waiting for counter shots.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-knocks-out-cox-four-results--121430|title=George Groves Knocks Out Cox in Four, Chris Eubank Jr. Next - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref> Chris Eubank Jr., who was sat ringside, entered the ring, giving his thoughts on the fight, "It was a good fight, he did what he had to win, not too many cuts and bruises so it looks like we're on for January. That's what we wanted."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/41625200|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves beats Jamie Cox with fourth-round knockout|date=14 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=15 October 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Groves spoke about his fallen opponent, "I picked him because I believe he was the most dangerous of the unseeded fighters. I didn't want an easy fight."<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/21023873/george-groves-demolishes-jamie-cox-four-rounds|title=Groves demolishes Cox inside four rounds|work=ESPN.com|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref> Groves landed 48 of 163 punches thrown (29%), 42 of them being power shots. Cox landed 36 of 131 thrown (28%).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-jamie-cox-compubox-punch-stats--121433|title=George Groves vs. Jamie Cox - CompuBox Punch Stats - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref>
At the Draft Gala on 8 July, Groves, who was first-seeded, meaning he had the option to select his opponent, choose to fight undefeated British boxer [[Jamie Cox (boxer)|Jamie Cox]] (23-0, 13 KOs).<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/40547011|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves to fight Jamie Cox in quarter-final|date=9 July 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=10 July 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Groves explained, picking Cox was a '"strategic" move and due to the tournament being long, it would be best to "pick the easy guy first".<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/groves-cox-strategic-move-i-picked-easy-guy-first--118333|title=Groves: Cox Was a Strategic Move, I Picked Easy Guy First - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=9 July 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=10 July 2017}}</ref> Cox was ranked #9 by the WBA at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Cox - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/groves-v-cox/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref> AG Comosa announced the fight would take place on 14 October 2017 at [[The SSE Arena, Wembley|The SSE Arena]] in [[Wembley|Wembley, London]]. Groves' WBA title would also be at stake as well the winner advancing to the semi-finals against the winner of [[Chris Eubank Jr.]] and [[Avni Yıldırım|Avni Yildrim]]. Groves took back his earlier words of saying Cox was the easiest, "I know there are no easy fights in this tournament and there are no easy fights at world level, but Jamie is the guy I know the most about."<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/20145154/george-groves-jamie-cox-bout-wbss-set-oct-14-london|title=Groves-Cox bout set for Oct. 14 in London|work=ESPN.com|access-date=25 July 2017}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/10959846/george-groves-tournament-fight-with-jamie-cox-will-take-place-on-october-14-at-wembley-arena|title=George Groves' tournament fight with Jamie Cox will take place on October 14 at Wembley Arena|work=Sky Sports|access-date=25 July 2017|language=en}}</ref> Groves retained his title and advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament in a competitive bout which came to an end in round 4. A perfectly placed right hand to the body send Cox down in pain. Referee Steve Gray counted him out at 1 minute, 42 seconds into the round. The fight started with both boxers feeling each other out and trading sporadically. Cox boxed well for the first two rounds however seemed a little reckless in doing so. Groves boxed sensibly, waiting for counter shots.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-knocks-out-cox-four-results--121430|title=George Groves Knocks Out Cox in Four, Chris Eubank Jr. Next - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=14 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref> Chris Eubank Jr., who was sat ringside, entered the ring, giving his thoughts on the fight, "It was a good fight, he did what he had to win, not too many cuts and bruises so it looks like we're on for January. That's what we wanted."<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/41625200|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves beats Jamie Cox with fourth-round knockout|date=14 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=15 October 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Groves spoke about his fallen opponent, "I picked him because I believe he was the most dangerous of the unseeded fighters. I didn't want an easy fight."<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/21023873/george-groves-demolishes-jamie-cox-four-rounds|title=Groves demolishes Cox inside four rounds|work=ESPN.com|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref> Groves landed 48 of 163 punches thrown (29%), 42 of them being power shots. Cox landed 36 of 131 thrown (28%).<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-jamie-cox-compubox-punch-stats--121433|title=George Groves vs. Jamie Cox - CompuBox Punch Stats - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=14 October 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=15 October 2017}}</ref>


====Groves vs. Eubank Jr.====
====Groves vs. Eubank Jr.====
{{Main|George Groves vs. Chris Eubank Jr.}}
Due to winning their respective bouts in October 2017, Groves and [[Chris Eubank Jr.]] (26-1, 20 KOs) were due to meet in the semi final of the tournament. At first, promoter Kalle Sauerland stated he would try to book the fight for a stadium in either London or Manchester. In November 2017, ITV reported the fight was set to take place on 17 February 2018 at the [[Manchester Arena]] in Manchester, Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena. The winner of the fight would earn his place in the final of the tournament as well as walk out with the WBA (Super) and [[International Boxing Organization|IBO]] super-middleweight titles.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.itv.com/news/update/2017-11-21/february-date-set-for-groves-v-eubank-jr-in-manchester/|title=Groves Eubank Jr fight will take place in Manchester|work=ITV News|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11137170/george-groves-to-face-chris-eubank-jr-in-manchester|title=George Groves to face Chris Eubank Jr in Manchester|work=Sky Sports|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/42067377|title=George Groves to fight Chris Eubank Jr in Super Series in Manchester|date=21 November 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Tickets for the fight sold out in seven minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/groves-eubank-tickets-fan-frenzy-sold-out-seven-minutes--122884|title=Groves-Eubank Tickets - Fan Frenzy, Sold Out in Seven Minutes - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|language=en-us|access-date=29 November 2017}}</ref> Groves weighed 167 pounds, a full pound under the weight limit and Eubank came in at 167.5 pounds.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/528782-weigh-alert-george-groves-167-chris-eubank-jr-167-5/|title=Weigh-in alert: George Groves 167 Chris Eubank Jr. 167.5 - The Ring|date=16 February 2018|work=The Ring|access-date=16 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Eubank Jr was ranked #2 both by the WBC and WBA at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Eubank Jr - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/groves-vs-eubank/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref>
Due to winning their respective bouts in October 2017, Groves and [[Chris Eubank Jr.]] (26-1, 20 KOs) were due to meet in the semi-final of the tournament. At first, promoter Kalle Sauerland stated he would try to book the fight for a stadium in either London or Manchester. In November 2017, ITV reported the fight was set to take place on 17 February 2018 at the [[Manchester Arena]] in Manchester, Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena. The winner of the fight would earn his place in the final of the tournament as well as walk out with the WBA (Super) and [[International Boxing Organization|IBO]] super-middleweight titles.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.itv.com/news/update/2017-11-21/february-date-set-for-groves-v-eubank-jr-in-manchester/|title=Groves Eubank Jr fight will take place in Manchester|work=ITV News|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11137170/george-groves-to-face-chris-eubank-jr-in-manchester|title=George Groves to face Chris Eubank Jr in Manchester|work=Sky Sports|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/42067377|title=George Groves to fight Chris Eubank Jr in Super Series in Manchester|date=21 November 2017|work=BBC Sport|access-date=21 November 2017|language=en-GB}}</ref> Tickets for the fight sold out in seven minutes.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.boxingscene.com/groves-eubank-tickets-fan-frenzy-sold-out-seven-minutes--122884|title=Groves-Eubank Tickets - Fan Frenzy, Sold Out in Seven Minutes - Boxing News|website=www.boxingscene.com|date=28 November 2017 |language=en-us|access-date=29 November 2017}}</ref> Groves weighed 167 pounds, a full pound under the weight limit and Eubank came in at 167.5 pounds.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.ringtv.com/528782-weigh-alert-george-groves-167-chris-eubank-jr-167-5/|title=Weigh-in alert: George Groves 167 Chris Eubank Jr. 167.5 - The Ring|date=16 February 2018|work=The Ring|access-date=16 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Eubank Jr was ranked #2 both by the WBC and WBA at the time.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Eubank Jr - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/groves-vs-eubank/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref>


Groves secured his place in the final of the tournament after defeating Eubank over 12 rounds. The judges scored the fight 117-112, 116-112 and 115-113 for Groves. Groves, the bigger man in the ring, used his jab to control the fight after a cagey round and mostly fought on the back foot, occasionally landing the big shot. An accidental clash of heads caused Eubank to receive a cut on the side of his right eye in round 3. The big cut was dealt with by his corner after the round, but as the fight went on to the later rounds, blood was seen flowing expeditiously. Many thought Eubanks cutman was inadequate in his attempt to stop the cut, Eubank later said he struggled to see out the eye. The fight was riddled with a lot of clinches and unclean punches from both boxers. Groves retained his WBA title but did not claim Eubank's IBO title as he did not pay their sanctioning fees. Groves also suffered a dislocated shoulder in round 12. It was said that Groves weighed around 184 pounds on fight night. After the fight, Groves said, “It was about who wanted it most, I think, and I obviously wanted it most. The jab was landing correctly all night. When he had success, it was because I did something wrong. He was strong, he was aggressive, but that obviously wasn’t enough tonight.” Eubank replied, “I thought it was close. I thought I did enough in the later rounds to win the fight, but it was a close fight. And all credit to George. You know, this is all part of boxing. You win some and you lose some. Hopefully we can get a rematch. It was enough of a good fight to have another one.”<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-decisions-bloody-chris-eubank-jr-results--125375|title=George Groves Decisions a Bloody Chris Eubank Jr.|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/43101520|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves retains WBA title after points win over Chris Eubank Jr|date=18 February 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11255632/groves-vs-eubank-jr-george-groves-reaches-world-boxing-super-series-final|title=Groves vs Eubank Jr: George Groves beats Chris Eubank Jr to reach World Boxing Super Series final|work=Sky Sports|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> Punch stats showed that Groves landed 117 of 398 punches thrown (29%) and Eubank landed 92 of his 421 thrown (22%). Many pundits and former boxers stated Eubank should move forward and hire a trainer.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-chris-eubank-compubox-punch-stats--125377|title=George Groves vs. Chris Eubank - CompuBox Punch Stats|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/19/eubank-v-groves-bout/|title=Ricky Hatton Gives Frank Assessment Of Eubank v Groves Bout {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=19 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/shane-mcguigan-eubank-jr-reassess-get-rid-cowboys--125425|title=Shane McGuigan: Eubank Jr. Must Reassess, Get Rid Of Cowboys|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/19/nigel-benn-lays-out/|title=Nigel Benn Lays Out Candid Advice For Eubank Jr After Groves Loss {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=19 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Both boxers earned a base purse of £1.5 million, which could increase due to sponsorship and PPV sales.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/14/eubank-vs-groves-purses/|title=Revealed: Eubank vs Groves Purses and WBSS Prize Money {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=14 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Four days after the fight it was revealed Groves didn't fight for the IBO belt after failing to agree on sanctioning fees with the IBO's president Ed Levine.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018/02/26/news/exclusive-ibo-s-ed-levine-clears-up-george-groves-confusion-confirms-chris-eubank-jr-eligibility-for-vacant-ibo-title|title=EXCLUSIVE: President Ed Levine clears up George Groves confusion, confirms Chris Eubank Jr. eligibility for vacant IBO title|work=worldboxingnews.net|access-date=26 February 2018|language=en-uk}}</ref>
Groves secured his place in the final of the tournament after defeating Eubank over 12 rounds. The judges scored the fight 117-112, 116-112 and 115-113 for Groves. Groves, the bigger man in the ring, used his jab to control the fight after a cagey round and mostly fought on the back foot, occasionally landing the big shot. An accidental clash of heads caused Eubank to receive a cut on the side of his right eye in round 3. The big cut was dealt with by his corner after the round, but as the fight went on to the later rounds, blood was seen flowing expeditiously. Many thought Eubanks cutman was inadequate in his attempt to stop the cut, Eubank later said he struggled to see out the eye. The fight was riddled with a lot of clinches and unclean punches from both boxers. Groves retained his WBA title but did not claim Eubank's IBO title as he did not pay their sanctioning fees. Groves also suffered a dislocated shoulder in round 12. It was said that Groves weighed around 184 pounds on fight night. After the fight, Groves said, “It was about who wanted it most, I think, and I obviously wanted it most. The jab was landing correctly all night. When he had success, it was because I did something wrong. He was strong, he was aggressive, but that obviously wasn’t enough tonight.” Eubank replied, “I thought it was close. I thought I did enough in the later rounds to win the fight, but it was a close fight. And all credit to George. You know, this is all part of boxing. You win some and you lose some. Hopefully we can get a rematch. It was enough of a good fight to have another one.”<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-decisions-bloody-chris-eubank-jr-results--125375|title=George Groves Decisions a Bloody Chris Eubank Jr.|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/43101520|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves retains WBA title after points win over Chris Eubank Jr|date=18 February 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11255632/groves-vs-eubank-jr-george-groves-reaches-world-boxing-super-series-final|title=Groves vs Eubank Jr: George Groves beats Chris Eubank Jr to reach World Boxing Super Series final|work=Sky Sports|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en}}</ref> Punch stats showed that Groves landed 117 of 398 punches thrown (29%) and Eubank landed 92 of his 421 thrown (22%). Many pundits and former boxers stated Eubank should move forward and hire a trainer.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/george-groves-vs-chris-eubank-compubox-punch-stats--125377|title=George Groves vs. Chris Eubank - CompuBox Punch Stats|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/19/eubank-v-groves-bout/|title=Ricky Hatton Gives Frank Assessment Of Eubank v Groves Bout {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=19 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/shane-mcguigan-eubank-jr-reassess-get-rid-cowboys--125425|title=Shane McGuigan: Eubank Jr. Must Reassess, Get Rid Of Cowboys|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/19/nigel-benn-lays-out/|title=Nigel Benn Lays Out Candid Advice For Eubank Jr After Groves Loss {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=19 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=23 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Both boxers earned a base purse of £1.5 million, which could increase due to sponsorship and PPV sales.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingnewsandviews.com/2018/02/14/eubank-vs-groves-purses/|title=Revealed: Eubank vs Groves Purses and WBSS Prize Money {{!}} Boxing News and Views|date=14 February 2018|work=Boxing News and Views|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-US}}</ref> Four days after the fight it was revealed Groves didn't fight for the IBO belt after failing to agree on sanctioning fees with the IBO's president Ed Levine.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018/02/26/news/exclusive-ibo-s-ed-levine-clears-up-george-groves-confusion-confirms-chris-eubank-jr-eligibility-for-vacant-ibo-title|title=EXCLUSIVE: President Ed Levine clears up George Groves confusion, confirms Chris Eubank Jr. eligibility for vacant IBO title|work=worldboxingnews.net|access-date=26 February 2018|language=en-uk}}</ref>


====Groves vs. Callum Smith====
====Groves vs. Callum Smith====
{{Main|George Groves vs. Callum Smith}}
On 13 February, it was announced that the final of the super-middleweight tournament would take place at the [[The O2 Arena|O2 Arena]] in London on 2 June 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/world-boxing-super-series-168-final-june-2-londons-o2-arena--125216|title=World Boxing Super Series 168 Final, June 2 at London's O2 Arena|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> The final was made up after Groves defeated Eubank Jr. on 17 February and [[Callum Smith]] (24-0, 17 KOs) defeating [[Nieky Holzken]] on 24 February.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-outboxes-nieky-holzken-results--125606|title=Callum Smith Outboxes Nieky Holzken, George Groves is Next|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> On 26 February, Groves tweeted that he would be going into surgery. He wrote, "We will be applying to the @WBSuperSeries for a one-month extension and are hopeful of securing this." He hoped to return to the ring by July.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11268438/george-groves-targets-july-return-against-callum-smith-after-shoulder-surgery|title=George Groves targets July return against Callum Smith after shoulder surgery|work=Sky Sports|access-date=26 February 2018|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/22584133/george-groves-surgery-injured-shoulder-asks-postpone-wbss-final|title=Groves to have surgery, wants WBSS extension|work=ESPN.com|access-date=26 February 2018}}</ref>
On 13 February, it was announced that the final of the super-middleweight tournament would take place at the [[The O2 Arena|O2 Arena]] in London on 2 June 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/world-boxing-super-series-168-final-june-2-londons-o2-arena--125216|title=World Boxing Super Series 168 Final, June 2 at London's O2 Arena|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> The final was made up after Groves defeated Eubank Jr. on 17 February and [[Callum Smith]] (24-0, 17 KOs) defeating [[Nieky Holzken]] on 24 February.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-outboxes-nieky-holzken-results--125606|title=Callum Smith Outboxes Nieky Holzken, George Groves is Next|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=25 February 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> On 26 February, Groves tweeted that he would be going into surgery. He wrote, "We will be applying to the @WBSuperSeries for a one-month extension and are hopeful of securing this." He hoped to return to the ring by July.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11268438/george-groves-targets-july-return-against-callum-smith-after-shoulder-surgery|title=George Groves targets July return against Callum Smith after shoulder surgery|work=Sky Sports|access-date=26 February 2018|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/22584133/george-groves-surgery-injured-shoulder-asks-postpone-wbss-final|title=Groves to have surgery, wants WBSS extension|work=ESPN.com|access-date=26 February 2018}}</ref>


On 9 May, Kalle Sauerland said that Groves could potentially be replaced by Chris Eubank Jr. in the final of the tournament against Smith, however there would be confirmation on the final in the next 10 days. Sauerland stated, "We're working at the moment on all the solutions and scenarios, where George [Groves] is fit and where he isn't. We're hopeful [Groves will be fit], so we'll see. You can't start the tournament and then have the final lingering into the next tournament. I'm sorry, that's not going to happen. We can push a month, but we can’t push it back by three or four months. We have a substitute system. We said that from day one, and that’s the situation. We want Groves in the final, but if that’s not possible and he doesn't declare himself fit in the next 10 days, we have to find a solution."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-vs-chris-eubank-play-if-no-groves-wbss-final--127989|title=Callum Smith vs. Chris Eubank in Play if No Groves For WBSS Final|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=9 May 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11365393/wbss-george-groves-given-deadline-to-prove-he-is-fit-to-face-callum-smith-in-final|title=WBSS: George Groves given deadline to prove he is fit to face Callum Smith in final|work=Sky Sports|access-date=9 May 2018|language=en}}</ref> On 28 May, it was said that Groves would be declared fit with the fight to take place on 14 July.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/groves-set-declared-fit-wbss-final-with-callum-smith--128571|title=Groves Set To Be Declared Fit For WBSS Final With Callum Smith|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=29 May 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> By 6 July, there was still no date set, however according to Kalle Sauerland, the bout was expected to take place in September and likely not in the UK, with some rumours hinting there was a strong interest from Las Vegas and Middle East. Smith's trainer Joe Gallagher confirmed contracts had been signed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/exclusive-callum-smith-on-fighting-george-groves-overseas/|title=EXCLUSIVE Callum Smith on fighting George Groves overseas - Boxing News|date=5 July 2018|work=Boxing News|access-date=6 July 2018|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/44732434|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves v Callum Smith 'unlikely to be in UK'|date=5 July 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=6 July 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> On 27 July, Sauerland announced the fight would take place at a 10,000 capacity arena at the [[King Abdullah Sports City|King Abdullah Sports City Complex]] in [[Jeddah]], Saudi Arabia on 28 September 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018072524882/news/george-groves-v-callum-smith-impressive-saudi-arena-favorite-to-stage-wbss-final-in-septmeber|title=George Groves v Callum Smith: Impressive Saudi arena favorite to stage WBSS Final in September|last=Smith|first=Groves v|work=WBN - World Boxing News|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en-gb}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/groves-vs-smith-finalized-september-28-jeddah--130342|title=Groves vs. Smith Finalized For September 28 in Jeddah|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11450859/george-groves-and-callum-smith-to-fight-for-muhammad-ali-trophy-in-jeddah-on-september-28|title=George Groves and Callum Smith to fight for Muhammad Ali trophy in Jeddah, on September 28|work=Sky Sports|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en}}</ref> It was reported the prize money on offer for the final was £6.1 million, with the winner taking a larger percentage.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/george-groves-vs-callum-smith-13325301|title=George Groves vs Callum Smith prize money revealed|last=Domin|first=Martin|date=2018-09-28|website=mirror|access-date=2018-12-27}}</ref> Smith was ranked #1 by the WBC and #4 by the WBA at super middleweight.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Smith - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/c-smith-vs-groves/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref>
On 9 May, Kalle Sauerland said that Groves could potentially be replaced by Chris Eubank Jr. in the final of the tournament against Smith, however there would be confirmation on the final in the next 10 days. Sauerland stated, "We're working at the moment on all the solutions and scenarios, where George [Groves] is fit and where he isn't. We're hopeful [Groves will be fit], so we'll see. You can't start the tournament and then have the final lingering into the next tournament. I'm sorry, that's not going to happen. We can push a month, but we can’t push it back by three or four months. We have a substitute system. We said that from day one, and that’s the situation. We want Groves in the final, but if that’s not possible and he doesn't declare himself fit in the next 10 days, we have to find a solution."<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-vs-chris-eubank-play-if-no-groves-wbss-final--127989|title=Callum Smith vs. Chris Eubank in Play if No Groves For WBSS Final|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=9 May 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11365393/wbss-george-groves-given-deadline-to-prove-he-is-fit-to-face-callum-smith-in-final|title=WBSS: George Groves given deadline to prove he is fit to face Callum Smith in final|work=Sky Sports|access-date=9 May 2018|language=en}}</ref> On 28 May, it was said that Groves would be declared fit with the fight to take place on 14 July.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/groves-set-declared-fit-wbss-final-with-callum-smith--128571|title=Groves Set To Be Declared Fit For WBSS Final With Callum Smith|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=29 May 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> By 6 July, there was still no date set, however according to Kalle Sauerland, the bout was expected to take place in September and likely not in the UK, with some rumours hinting there was a strong interest from Las Vegas and Middle East. Smith's trainer Joe Gallagher confirmed contracts had been signed.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.boxingnewsonline.net/exclusive-callum-smith-on-fighting-george-groves-overseas/|title=EXCLUSIVE Callum Smith on fighting George Groves overseas - Boxing News|date=5 July 2018|work=Boxing News|access-date=6 July 2018|language=en-US}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/44732434|title=World Boxing Super Series: George Groves v Callum Smith 'unlikely to be in UK'|date=5 July 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=6 July 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> On 27 July, Sauerland announced the fight would take place at a 10,000 capacity arena at the [[King Abdullah Sports City|King Abdullah Sports City Complex]] in [[Jeddah]], Saudi Arabia on 28 September 2018.<ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018072524882/news/george-groves-v-callum-smith-impressive-saudi-arena-favorite-to-stage-wbss-final-in-septmeber|title=George Groves v Callum Smith: Impressive Saudi arena favorite to stage WBSS Final in September|last=Smith|first=Groves v|work=WBN - World Boxing News|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en-gb|archive-date=27 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180727145807/http://www.worldboxingnews.net/2018072524882/news/george-groves-v-callum-smith-impressive-saudi-arena-favorite-to-stage-wbss-final-in-septmeber|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/groves-vs-smith-finalized-september-28-jeddah--130342|title=Groves vs. Smith Finalized For September 28 in Jeddah|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11450859/george-groves-and-callum-smith-to-fight-for-muhammad-ali-trophy-in-jeddah-on-september-28|title=George Groves and Callum Smith to fight for Muhammad Ali trophy in Jeddah, on September 28|work=Sky Sports|access-date=27 July 2018|language=en}}</ref> It was reported the prize money on offer for the final was £6.1 million, with the winner taking a larger percentage.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/boxing/george-groves-vs-callum-smith-13325301|title=George Groves vs Callum Smith prize money revealed|last=Domin|first=Martin|date=2018-09-28|website=mirror|access-date=2018-12-27}}</ref> Smith was ranked #1 by the WBC and #4 by the WBA at super middleweight.<ref>{{Cite web|title=Groves vs Smith - News, Tape, Ringwalk, TV, Streaming & Tickets|url=https://box.live/fights/c-smith-vs-groves/|access-date=2021-09-20|website=Box.Live|language=en-US}}</ref>


After a tight match with the fighters level on the judges' scorecards, Smith defeated Groves by round 7 knockout.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/sep/28/callum-smith-knocks-out-george-groves-super-middleweight-crown|title=Callum Smith knocks out George Groves to land super-middleweight crown|work=The Guardian|access-date=27 October 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> The size difference was noticeable as the fight was fought closely throughout the opening 6 rounds with back and forth action. Early in the fight, Groves established his jab whilst trying to avoid any power shots from Smith, whilst Smith was connecting with his right hand. Smith had more success in round 3 after a counter-right hand buckled Groves legs. In round 6, Smith backed Groves against the ropes and landed two strong jabs. He later landed a clean left hook which forced Groves to move back. Midway through round 7, Groves landed two body shots, however leaving himself open, Smith landed a left hook, which again shook Groves and forced him to retreat backwards. Groves was hurt at this point and Smith went after Groves against the ropes and landed numerous shots, including a hard body shot and an uppercut, ultimately sending Groves to the canvas. Groves managed to get to one knee, before referee Luis Pabon finished the 10-count, giving Smith the win. Groves made no excuses, claiming the shoulder was never an issue in the fight. He also ruled out retirement. Muhammad Ali's daughter presented Smith with the trophy. Smith claimed the WBA super-middleweight title along with the vacant ''Ring Magazine'' title. Smith became the third super-middleweight after [[Joe Calzaghe]] and [[Andre Ward vs. Carl Froch|Andre Ward]] to win the Ring belt.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-knocks-george-groves-out-seven-results--132266|title=Callum Smith Knocks George Groves Out in Seven, Wins WBSS|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11511546/groves-vs-smith-callum-smith-stops-george-groves-to-win-wba-super-middleweight-world-title|title=Groves vs Smith: Callum Smith stops George Groves to win WBA super-middleweight world title|work=Sky Sports|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/45683595|title=World Boxing Super Series final: Callum Smith knocks out George Groves|date=28 September 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> There were four official judge's scorecards. One judge had it even after 6 rounds at 57–57, two judges had Groves ahead 59–55 and 58–56 and one judge had Smith ahead 59–55.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-08|title=“The 91 Second Massacre”'s tweet - "Groves vs Smith scorecards at the time of the stoppage. #GrovesSmith @KOKINGS4 @TheFightGuru @Tonypem @ArronChester @AssassinSte " - Trendsmap|url=https://www.trendsmap.com/twitter/tweet/1045779304485965824|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108224412/https://www.trendsmap.com/twitter/tweet/1045779304485965824|archive-date=2018-11-08|access-date=2021-09-20|website=web.archive.org}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/24824204/callum-smith-beats-george-groves-via-seventh-round-knockout-win-wba-world-title|title=Smith KOs Groves to win WBA world title|work=ESPN.com|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en}}</ref>
After a tight match with the fighters level on the judges' scorecards, Smith defeated Groves by round 7 knockout.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2018/sep/28/callum-smith-knocks-out-george-groves-super-middleweight-crown|title=Callum Smith knocks out George Groves to land super-middleweight crown|work=The Guardian|access-date=27 October 2018|language=en-us}}</ref> The size difference was noticeable as the fight was fought closely throughout the opening 6 rounds with back and forth action. Early in the fight, Groves established his jab whilst trying to avoid any power shots from Smith, whilst Smith was connecting with his right hand. Smith had more success in round 3 after a counter-right hand buckled Groves legs. In round 6, Smith backed Groves against the ropes and landed two strong jabs. He later landed a clean left hook which forced Groves to move back. Midway through round 7, Groves landed two body shots, however leaving himself open, Smith landed a left hook, which again shook Groves and forced him to retreat backwards. Groves was hurt at this point and Smith went after Groves against the ropes and landed numerous shots, including a hard body shot and an uppercut, ultimately sending Groves to the canvas. Groves managed to get to one knee, before referee Luis Pabon finished the 10-count, giving Smith the win. Groves made no excuses, claiming the shoulder was never an issue in the fight. He also ruled out retirement. Muhammad Ali's daughter presented Smith with the trophy. Smith claimed the WBA super-middleweight title along with the vacant ''Ring Magazine'' title. Smith became the third super-middleweight after [[Joe Calzaghe]] and [[Andre Ward vs. Carl Froch|Andre Ward]] to win the Ring belt.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.boxingscene.com/callum-smith-knocks-george-groves-out-seven-results--132266|title=Callum Smith Knocks George Groves Out in Seven, Wins WBSS|work=BoxingScene.com|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en-us}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.skysports.com/boxing/news/12183/11511546/groves-vs-smith-callum-smith-stops-george-groves-to-win-wba-super-middleweight-world-title|title=Groves vs Smith: Callum Smith stops George Groves to win WBA super-middleweight world title|work=Sky Sports|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/boxing/45683595|title=World Boxing Super Series final: Callum Smith knocks out George Groves|date=28 September 2018|work=BBC Sport|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en-GB}}</ref> There were four official judge's scorecards. One judge had it even after 6 rounds at 57–57, two judges had Groves ahead 59–55 and 58–56 and one judge had Smith ahead 59–55.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2018-11-08|title="The 91 Second Massacre"'s tweet - "Groves vs Smith scorecards at the time of the stoppage. #GrovesSmith @KOKINGS4 @TheFightGuru @Tonypem @ArronChester @AssassinSte " - Trendsmap|url=https://www.trendsmap.com/twitter/tweet/1045779304485965824|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181108224412/https://www.trendsmap.com/twitter/tweet/1045779304485965824|archive-date=2018-11-08|access-date=2021-09-20}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=http://www.espn.co.uk/boxing/story/_/id/24824204/callum-smith-beats-george-groves-via-seventh-round-knockout-win-wba-world-title|title=Smith KOs Groves to win WBA world title|work=ESPN.com|access-date=8 November 2018|language=en}}</ref>


===Retirement===
===Retirement===
On 28 January 2019, at the age of 30, Groves announced his retirement from professional boxing, stating, "I don't want there to be a time where I'm 'too old' to box, or where injury retires me." In a long statement, he highlighted some career events and offered a prayer for [[Eduard Gutknecht]]. Groves ended his career on 28 wins, with 20 coming inside the distance and 4 losses.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/jan/28/george-groves-announces-his-retirement-from-boxing|title=George Groves announces his retirement from boxing aged 30|last=Association|first=Press|date=2019-01-28|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-04-01|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-02|title=George Groves announces retirement from boxing {{!}} Sky News|url=https://news.sky.com/story/george-groves-announces-retirement-from-boxing-11620317|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402002615/https://news.sky.com/story/george-groves-announces-retirement-from-boxing-11620317|archive-date=2019-02-04|access-date=2021-09-20|website=web.archive.org}}</ref>
On 28 January 2019, at the age of 30, Groves announced his retirement from professional boxing, stating, "I don't want there to be a time where I'm 'too old' to box, or where injury retires me." In a long statement, he highlighted some career events and offered a prayer for [[Eduard Gutknecht]]. Groves ended his career on 28 wins, with 20 coming inside the distance and 4 losses.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2019/jan/28/george-groves-announces-his-retirement-from-boxing|title=George Groves announces his retirement from boxing aged 30|agency=Press Association|date=2019-01-28|work=The Guardian|access-date=2019-04-01|language=en-GB|issn=0261-3077}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|date=2019-04-02|title=George Groves announces retirement from boxing {{!}} Sky News|url=https://news.sky.com/story/george-groves-announces-retirement-from-boxing-11620317|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402002615/https://news.sky.com/story/george-groves-announces-retirement-from-boxing-11620317|archive-date=2019-04-02|access-date=2021-09-20}}</ref>


==Professional boxing record==
==Professional boxing record==
Line 132: Line 135:
|{{no2}}Loss
|{{no2}}Loss
|28–4
|28–4
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Callum Smith]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Callum Smith]]
|KO
|KO
|7 (12), {{small|2:04}}
|7 (12), {{small|2:04}}
|28 Sep 2018
|[[George Groves vs. Callum Smith|28 Sep 2018]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|KSA}} {{small|[[King Abdullah Sports City]], [[Jeddah]], Saudi Arabia}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[King Abdullah Sports City]], [[Jeddah]], Saudi Arabia}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>For vacant [[list of The Ring world champions#Super middleweight|''The Ring'' super-middleweight title]];<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Final|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight final]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Lost WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>For vacant [[list of The Ring world champions#Super middleweight|''The Ring'' super-middleweight title]];<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Final|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight final]]}}
|-
|-
Line 142: Line 145:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|28–3
|28–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Chris Eubank Jr.]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Chris Eubank Jr.]]
|UD
|UD
|12
|12
|17 Feb 2018
|[[George Groves vs. Chris Eubank Jr.|17 Feb 2018]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Manchester Arena]], Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Manchester Arena]], Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Semifinals|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight semi-final]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Semifinals|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight semi-final]]}}
|-
|-
Line 152: Line 155:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|27–3
|27–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Jamie Cox (boxer)|Jamie Cox]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Jamie Cox (boxer)|Jamie Cox]]
|KO
|KO
|4 (12), {{small|1:42}}
|4 (12), {{small|1:42}}
|[[George Groves vs. Jamie Cox|14 Oct 2017]]
|[[George Groves vs. Jamie Cox|14 Oct 2017]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Quarterfinals|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight quarter-final]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;<br>[[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Quarterfinals|World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight quarter-final]]}}
|-
|-
Line 162: Line 165:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|26–3
|26–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|RUS}} [[Fedor Chudinov]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Fedor Chudinov]]
|TKO
|TKO
|6 (12), {{small|1:14}}
|6 (12), {{small|1:14}}
|27 May 2017
|[[Kell Brook vs. Errol Spence Jr|27 May 2017]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Bramall Lane]], [[Sheffield]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Bramall Lane]], [[Sheffield]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant [[list of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA (Super) super-middleweight title]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant [[list of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA (Super) super-middleweight title]]}}
|-
|-
Line 172: Line 175:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|25–3
|25–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GER}} [[Eduard Gutknecht]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Eduard Gutknecht]]
|UD
|UD
|12
|12
|18 Nov 2016
|18 Nov 2016
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 182: Line 185:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|24–3
|24–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Martin Murray (boxer)|Martin Murray]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Martin Murray (boxer)|Martin Murray]]
|UD
|UD
|12
|12
|[[Anthony Joshua vs. Dominic Breazeale|25 Jun 2016]]
|[[Anthony Joshua vs. Dominic Breazeale|25 Jun 2016]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 192: Line 195:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|23–3
|23–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[David Brophy (boxer)|David Brophy]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[David Brophy (boxer)|David Brophy]]
|KO
|KO
|4 (12), {{small|0:47}}
|4 (12), {{small|0:47}}
|[[Charles Martin vs. Anthony Joshua|9 Apr 2016]]
|[[Charles Martin vs. Anthony Joshua|9 Apr 2016]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant WBA International super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 202: Line 205:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|22–3
|22–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ITA}} [[Andrea Di Luisa]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Andrea Di Luisa]]
|TKO
|TKO
|5 (12), {{small|1:55}}
|5 (12), {{small|1:55}}
|30 Jan 2016
|30 Jan 2016
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Copper Box Arena]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Copper Box Arena]], London, England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 212: Line 215:
|{{no2}}Loss
|{{no2}}Loss
|21–3
|21–3
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|SWE}} [[Badou Jack]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Badou Jack]]
|{{abbr|SD|Split decision}}
|{{abbr|SD|Split decision}}
|12
|12
|[[Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Andre Berto|12 Sep 2015]]
|[[Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Andre Berto|12 Sep 2015]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|[[MGM Grand Garden Arena]], Paradise, Nevada, US}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[MGM Grand Garden Arena]], Paradise, Nevada, US}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For [[list of WBC world champions#Super middleweight|WBC super-middleweight title]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For [[list of WBC world champions#Super middleweight|WBC super-middleweight title]]}}
|-
|-
Line 222: Line 225:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|21–2
|21–2
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} Denis Douglin
|style="text-align:left;"|Denis Douglin
|TKO
|TKO
|7 (12), {{small|2:54}}
|7 (12), {{small|2:54}}
|22 Nov 2014
|22 Nov 2014
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|Echo Arena, Liverpool, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Echo Arena, Liverpool, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC Silver super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained WBC Silver super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 232: Line 235:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|20–2
|20–2
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRA}} [[Christopher Rebrassé]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Christopher Rebrassé]]
|UD
|UD
|12
|12
|20 Sep 2014
|20 Sep 2014
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[The SSE Arena Wembley]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[The SSE Arena Wembley]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won [[list of European Boxing Union super middleweight champions|European]] and vacant [[WBC Silver]] super-middleweight titles}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won [[list of European Boxing Union super middleweight champions|European]] and vacant [[WBC Silver]] super-middleweight titles}}
|-
|-
Line 242: Line 245:
|{{no2}}Loss
|{{no2}}Loss
|19–2
|19–2
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Carl Froch]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Carl Froch]]
|{{abbr|KO|Knockout}}
|{{abbr|KO|Knockout}}
|8 (12), {{small|2:34}}
|8 (12), {{small|2:34}}
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves II|31 May 2014]]
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves II|31 May 2014]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Wembley Stadium]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Wembley Stadium]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBA (Unified) and IBF super-middleweight titles}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For WBA (Unified) and IBF super-middleweight titles}}
|-
|-
Line 252: Line 255:
|{{no2}}Loss
|{{no2}}Loss
|19–1
|19–1
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Carl Froch]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Carl Froch]]
|TKO
|TKO
|9 (12), {{small|1:33}}
|9 (12), {{small|1:33}}
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves|23 Nov 2013]]
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves|23 Nov 2013]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Phones4u Arena]], Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Phones4u Arena]], Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For [[list of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA (Unified)]] and [[list of IBF world champions#Super middleweight|IBF super-middleweight titles]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|For [[list of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA (Unified)]] and [[list of IBF world champions#Super middleweight|IBF super-middleweight titles]]}}
|-
|-
Line 262: Line 265:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|19–0
|19–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|URU}} [[Noé González Alcoba]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Noé González Alcoba]]
|TKO
|TKO
|5 (12), {{small|0:51}}
|5 (12), {{small|0:51}}
|[[Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler II|25 May 2013]]
|[[Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler II|25 May 2013]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant WBA Inter-Continental super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won vacant WBA Inter-Continental super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 272: Line 275:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|18–0
|18–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GER}} [[Baker Barakat]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Baker Barakat]]
|TKO
|TKO
|2 (8), {{small|2:20}}
|2 (8), {{small|2:20}}
|23 Mar 2013
|23 Mar 2013
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GER}} {{small|[[GETEC Arena]], [[Magdeburg]], Germany}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[GETEC Arena]], [[Magdeburg]], Germany}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 282: Line 285:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|17–0
|17–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|ARG}} Dario German Balmaceda
|style="text-align:left;"|Dario German Balmaceda
|TKO
|TKO
|3 (10), {{small|0:58}}
|3 (10), {{small|0:58}}
|9 Mar 2013
|9 Mar 2013
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|Wembley Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Wembley Arena, London, England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 292: Line 295:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|16–0
|16–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|JAM}} [[Glen Johnson (boxer)|Glen Johnson]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Glen Johnson (boxer)|Glen Johnson]]
|UD
|UD
|12
|12
|15 Dec 2012
|15 Dec 2012
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[ExCeL]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[ExCeL]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 302: Line 305:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|15–0
|15–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|MEX}} [[Francisco Sierra (boxer)|Francisco Sierra]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Francisco Sierra (boxer)|Francisco Sierra]]
|TKO
|TKO
|6 (10), {{small|2:15}}
|6 (10), {{small|2:15}}
|28 Jul 2012
|28 Jul 2012
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|[[HP Pavilion at San Jose|HP Pavilion]], [[San Jose, California]], US}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[HP Pavilion at San Jose|HP Pavilion]], [[San Jose, California]], US}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 312: Line 315:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|14–0
|14–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Paul Smith (boxer)|Paul Smith]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Paul Smith (boxer)|Paul Smith]]
|TKO
|TKO
|2 (12), {{small|1:18}}
|2 (12), {{small|1:18}}
|5 Nov 2011
|5 Nov 2011
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Wembley Arena]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Wembley Arena]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles}}
|-
|-
Line 322: Line 325:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|13–0
|13–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[James DeGale]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[James DeGale]]
|{{abbr|MD|Majority decision}}
|{{abbr|MD|Majority decision}}
|12
|12
|21 May 2011
|21 May 2011
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|The O2 Arena, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title;<br>Won [[list of British super-middleweight boxing champions|British super-middleweight title]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title;<br>Won [[list of British super-middleweight boxing champions|British super-middleweight title]]}}
|-
|-
Line 332: Line 335:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|12–0
|12–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GHA}} Daniel Adotey Allotey
|style="text-align:left;"|Daniel Adotey Allotey
|TKO
|TKO
|4 (8), {{small|1:53}}
|4 (8), {{small|1:53}}
|5 Mar 2011
|5 Mar 2011
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|Leisure Centre, [[Huddersfield]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Leisure Centre, [[Huddersfield]], England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 342: Line 345:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|11–0
|11–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} [[Kenny Anderson (boxer)|Kenny Anderson]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Kenny Anderson (boxer)|Kenny Anderson]]
|TKO
|TKO
|6 (12), {{small|2:35}}
|6 (12), {{small|2:35}}
|13 Nov 2010
|[[David Haye vs. Audley Harrison|13 Nov 2010]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|MEN Arena, Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|MEN Arena, Manchester, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title}}
|-
|-
Line 352: Line 355:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|10–0
|10–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|MEX}} Alfredo Contreras
|style="text-align:left;"|Alfredo Contreras
|TKO
|TKO
|6 (8), {{small|0:48}}
|6 (8), {{small|0:48}}
|[[Juan Manuel Márquez vs. Juan Díaz II|31 Jul 2010]]
|[[Juan Manuel Márquez vs. Juan Díaz II|31 Jul 2010]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|USA}} {{small|[[Mandalay Bay Events Center]], [[Paradise, Nevada]], US}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Mandalay Bay Events Center]], [[Paradise, Nevada]], US}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 362: Line 365:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|9–0
|9–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GHA}} [[Charles Adamu]]
|style="text-align:left;"|[[Charles Adamu]]
|TKO
|TKO
|6 (12), {{small|2:51}}
|6 (12), {{small|2:51}}
|3 Apr 2010
|[[David Haye vs. John Ruiz|3 Apr 2010]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[MEN Arena]], [[Manchester]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[MEN Arena]], [[Manchester]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won [[list of Commonwealth Boxing Council champions#Super middleweight|Commonwealth super-middleweight title]]}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Won [[list of Commonwealth Boxing Council champions#Super middleweight|Commonwealth super-middleweight title]]}}
|-
|-
Line 372: Line 375:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|8–0
|8–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|BUL}} Grigor Sarohanian
|style="text-align:left;"|Grigor Sarohanian
|TKO
|TKO
|3 (6)
|3 (6)
|22 Jan 2010
|22 Jan 2010
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Brentwood Centre]], [[Brentwood, Essex|Brentwood]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Brentwood Centre]], [[Brentwood, Essex|Brentwood]], England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 382: Line 385:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|7–0
|7–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|BLR}} Konstantin Makhankov
|style="text-align:left;"|Konstantin Makhankov
|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}
|{{abbr|UD|Unanimous decision}}
|8
|8
|[[Nikolai Valuev vs. David Haye|7 Nov 2009]]
|[[Nikolai Valuev vs. David Haye|7 Nov 2009]]
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|GER}} {{small|[[Nuremberg Arena]], [[Nuremberg]], Germany}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Nuremberg Arena]], [[Nuremberg]], Germany}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 392: Line 395:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|6–0
|6–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|LIT}} Tadas Jonkus
|style="text-align:left;"|Tadas Jonkus
|TKO
|TKO
|4 (6), {{small|1:49}}
|4 (6), {{small|1:49}}
|16 Oct 2009
|16 Oct 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|Seaburn Centre, [[Sunderland, Tyne and Wear|Sunderland]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|Seaburn Centre, [[Sunderland, Tyne and Wear|Sunderland]], England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 402: Line 405:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|5–0
|5–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|LAT}} Martins Kukulis
|style="text-align:left;"|Martins Kukulis
|TKO
|TKO
|5 (8), {{small|2:50}}
|5 (8), {{small|2:50}}
|4 Oct 2009
|4 Oct 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|York Hall, London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|York Hall, London, England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 412: Line 415:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|4–0
|4–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|HUN}} Sandor Polgar
|style="text-align:left;"|Sandor Polgar
|TKO
|TKO
|1 (6), {{small|1:54}}
|1 (6), {{small|1:54}}
|25 Apr 2009
|25 Apr 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Ulster Hall]], [[Belfast]], Northern Ireland}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Ulster Hall]], [[Belfast]], Northern Ireland}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 422: Line 425:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|3–0
|3–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} Paul Samuels
|style="text-align:left;"|Paul Samuels
|TKO
|TKO
|1 (6), {{small|2:31}}
|1 (6), {{small|2:31}}
|28 Mar 2009
|28 Mar 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[Echo Arena Liverpool|Echo Arena]], [[Liverpool]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[Echo Arena Liverpool|Echo Arena]], [[Liverpool]], England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 432: Line 435:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|2–0
|2–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|FRA}} Romaric Hignard
|style="text-align:left;"|Romaric Hignard
|{{abbr|TKO|Technical knockout}}
|{{abbr|TKO|Technical knockout}}
|3 (6), {{small|1:48}}
|3 (6), {{small|1:48}}
|1 Feb 2009
|1 Feb 2009
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[York Hall]], London, England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[York Hall]], London, England}}
|
|
|-
|-
Line 442: Line 445:
|{{yes2}}Win
|{{yes2}}Win
|1–0
|1–0
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|LIT}} Kirilas Psonko
|style="text-align:left;"|Kirilas Psonko
|{{abbr|PTS|Points decision}}
|{{abbr|PTS|Points decision}}
|6
|6
|15 Nov 2008
|15 Nov 2008
|style="text-align:left;"|{{flagicon|UK}} {{small|[[The O2 Arena]], [[London]], England}}
|style="text-align:left;"|{{small|[[The O2 Arena]], [[London]], England}}
|
|
|}

==Pay-per-view bouts==
{| class="wikitable sortable"
|+ United Kingdom
! No. !! Date !! Fight !! Network !! Buys
! class="unsortable" | Source(s)
|-
|align=center|1
| {{dts|2011|May|21|format=dmy}}
|George Groves vs. [[James DeGale]]
| [[Sky Box Office]]
| 43,000
| <ref>{{cite web|title=Weekly viewing summary (Sky Box Office Events buys between 16{{ndash}}22 May 2011)|url=http://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-viewing-summary/|website=[[Broadcasters' Audience Research Board]]|access-date=4 May 2018}}</ref>
|-
|align=center|2
| {{dts|2013|November|23|format=dmy}}
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves]]
| Sky Box Office
| 47,000
| <ref>{{cite web|title=Weekly viewing summary (Sky Box Office Events buys between 18 November 2013 and 1 December 2013)|url=http://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-viewing-summary/|website=[[Broadcasters' Audience Research Board]]|access-date=4 May 2018}}</ref>
|-
|align=center|3
| {{dts|2014|May|31|format=dmy}}
|[[Carl Froch vs. George Groves II]]
| Sky Box Office
| 355,000
| <ref>{{cite web|title=Weekly viewing summary (Sky Box Office Events buys between 26 May 2014 and 1 June 2014)|url=http://www.barb.co.uk/viewing-data/weekly-viewing-summary/|website=[[Broadcasters' Audience Research Board]]|access-date=4 May 2018}}</ref>
|-
|align=center|4
| {{dts|2017|October|14|format=dmy}}
|George Groves vs. [[Jamie Cox (boxer)|Jamie Cox]]
| [[ITV (TV network)|ITV Box Office]]
|
|
|-
|align=center|5
| {{dts|2018|February|17|format=dmy}}
| George Groves vs. [[Chris Eubank Jr.]]
| ITV Box Office
|
|
|-
|align=center|6
| {{dts|2018|September|28|format=dmy}}
|George Groves vs. [[Callum Smith]]
| ITV Box Office
|
|
|-
! colspan="3" | Total sales
!
! 445,000
!
|}
|}


Line 496: Line 553:
{{s-vac|last=[[Felix Sturm]]}}
{{s-vac|last=[[Felix Sturm]]}}
{{s-ttl|title=[[List of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA super-middleweight champion]]<br>[[WBA (Super)|Super title]]
{{s-ttl|title=[[List of WBA world champions#Super middleweight|WBA super-middleweight champion]]<br>[[WBA (Super)|Super title]]
|years=27 May 2017 – [[2017–18 World Boxing Super Series – super middleweight division#Final|28 September 2018]]}}
|years=27 May 2017 – [[George Groves vs. Callum Smith|28 September 2018]]}}
{{s-aft|after=Callum Smith}}
{{s-aft|after=Callum Smith}}
{{s-end}}
{{s-end}}
Line 506: Line 563:
[[Category:1988 births]]
[[Category:1988 births]]
[[Category:People from Hammersmith]]
[[Category:People from Hammersmith]]
⚫
[[Category:Boxers from the London Borough of Hammersmith and Fulham]]
[[Category:European Boxing Union champions]]
[[Category:European Boxing Union champions]]
⚫
[[Category:Boxers from Greater London]]
[[Category:Commonwealth Boxing Council champions]]
[[Category:Commonwealth Boxing Council champions]]
[[Category:World Boxing Association champions]]
[[Category:World Boxing Association champions]]
Line 513: Line 570:
[[Category:British Boxing Board of Control champions]]
[[Category:British Boxing Board of Control champions]]
[[Category:Middleweight boxers]]
[[Category:Middleweight boxers]]
[[Category:21st-century English sportsmen]]

Latest revision as of 01:28, 31 October 2024

George Groves
Groves in 2011
Born (1988-03-26) 26 March 1988 (age 36)
Hammersmith,
West London,
England
NationalityBritish
Other namesSaint George[2]
Statistics
Weight(s)Super-middleweight
Height5 ft 11+1⁄2 in (182 cm)[1]
Reach74 in (188 cm)[1]
StanceOrthodox
Boxing record
Total fights32
Wins28
Wins by KO20
Losses4

George Groves (born 26 March 1988) is a British former professional boxer who competed from 2008 to 2018. He held the WBA (Super) super-middleweight title from 2017 to 2018. At regional level, he held multiple super-middleweight titles, including the European, British, and Commonwealth titles between 2010 and 2014. As an amateur, Groves won the ABA middleweight title twice in 2007 and 2008.

In March 2018, he was ranked as the world's best active super-middleweight by BoxRec, The Ring magazine and the Transnational Boxing Rankings Board.

Amateur career

[edit]

Groves generally fought in the 75 kilograms (165 lb) division as an amateur and won the Senior ABA championship for his weight in 2006 and 2007.[3] He also fought in championships around the world and won medals in places such as Russia, Estonia, Bosnia, Morocco and the United States.[4] In 2006, he defeated future Olympic and world champion James DeGale and compiled a total amateur record of 66 wins out of 76 fights with 40 stoppage victories.[5]

Professional career

[edit]

Early career

[edit]

Groves turned professional on 15 November 2008 and joined the Hayemaker Promotions stable. His first fight as a professional took place in November 2008 at The O2 Arena, on the undercard of David Haye's win over Monte Barrett with a six-round win over Kirill Pshonko.[6] His next outing in February 2009, saw him score a third round stoppage over Romaric Hignard in a fight at the York Hall in Bethnal Green. He followed the victory up in March defeating Paul Samuels at the Echo Arena in Liverpool, and in April travelled to Belfast to dispose of Sandor Polgar.[7]

In September 2009, following the collapse of Hayemaker's television deal with Setanta Sports, Groves along with Olympic bronze medalist David Price signed a promotional deal with veteran boxing promoter Frank Maloney who described Groves as "one of the world's best prospects". Despite signing for Maloney however, Groves would continue to be managed and trained by Hayemaker's Adam Booth.[8] On 7 November 2009, following two more professional outings, Groves travelled to Germany and fought on the undercard of stablemate David Haye's WBA title win against Nikolai Valuev, defeating the experienced Konstantin Makhankov in his first fight over eight rounds.[citation needed]

British and Commonwealth champion

[edit]
Groves (right) vs. Paul Smith, 2011

Groves' first title opportunity came on 3 April 2010, as part of the undercard of David Haye's first title defence against John Ruiz at the MEN Arena in Manchester. Groves, in only his ninth fight, defeated Charles Adamu via TKO to win the Commonwealth super-middleweight title. Groves had dominated the fight, knocking Adamu down once in the first and twice in the fourth before the referee stepped in with nine seconds remaining in the sixth.[9] Groves followed up the win by travelling to Las Vegas in order to gain some higher-profile experience and to fight on the undercard of Marquez-Diaz II on 31 July 2010. Groves' opponent, Alfredo Contreras, had a record of eleven wins and seven losses going into the fight, but nonetheless represented a higher level of international journeyman than those Groves had already beaten. The fight was stopped in the sixth round after the referee decided that Contreras was not sufficiently answering back with punches.[10]

On 13 November 2010, Groves made the first defence of his title beating former Commonwealth Games gold medalist Kenny Anderson in the sixth round. The fight, on the undercard of David Haye's world title clash with Audley Harrison at the MEN Arena, resulted in a career first knockdown for Groves as he endured his toughest fight to date.[11] On 5 March 2011, Groves defeated Daniel Adotey Allotey at the Huddersfield Leisure Centre, winning by stoppage in the fourth round of what was an eight-round non-title fight. Following the bout Groves said that the fight had been preparation for a potential future clash with British champion and old foe James DeGale, a fight he predicted that he would win. He said "Whether it comes by knockout or points, I don't really care. He knows that I've got his number and he's going to struggle to sleep in the preparation for this fight because he is going to have me on his brain all the time."[12]

Groves vs. DeGale

[edit]

On 21 May 2011 at the O2 Arena in London, Groves and DeGale met in a highly anticipated grudge match for the Commonwealth and British super-middleweight titles. Groves was declared the winner by majority decision after twelve closely fought rounds. Two judges scored the fight 115–114 in favour of Groves, with another scoring the fight even at 115–115.[13]

Groves with Adam Booth (centre) and David Haye, 2011

A rematch between DeGale and Groves became a possibility when Frank Warren, DeGale's promoter, announced that he had signed Groves to his stable on a three-year deal. Warren said, "It is an obvious fight that will definitely happen again", adding "The last fight was very close and a few observers felt that it could have gone either way".[14] Despite leaving the Hayemaker promotional stable, Groves' manager and trainer Adam Booth announced that the decision to join Frank Warren was in the best interests of Groves' career.[14]

Groves vs. Paul Smith, Johnson

[edit]

In his first fight with Warren on 5 November 2011, Groves beat former British champion Paul Smith in two rounds at the Wembley Arena in London to retain his British and Commonwealth titles.[15]

After nine months out, Groves returned to the ring in July 2012 knocking out Mexican boxer Francisco Sierra in 2 rounds.[16] In December, Groves fought veteran former world champion Glen Johnson at the ExCel Arena. At the time of the fight, Johnson was 19 years older than Groves. Groves knocked Johnson down in the twelfth round, though Johnson appeared to fall more from being off balance. Groves won a lopsided decision after 12 rounds when the judges scored it (120-107, 120-107 & 119-109). Groves won 35 of 36 scored rounds on the three judges scorecards, gave Johnson a bad beating in the seventh round but the fight was not stopped though it could have been.[17]

Groves fought twice in March 2013. He first knocked out Dario German Balmaceda in round 3 in London, before travelling to Germany two weeks later to stop Baker Barakat in two rounds.

In May, Groves defeated 34 year old Noe Gonzalez Alcoba (30-2, 22 KOs) at the O2 Arena on the undercard of the Carl Froch vs. Mikkel Kessler rematch.[18] By doing so, he claimed the vacant WBA Inter-Continental super middleweight title. Groves landed a right hand in the opening minute of the fifth round which caught Noe Gonzalez coming forward and sent him down for a count of five. Gonzalez made it to his feet, but Gonzalez stood on shaky legs as the referee waved an end to the bout. Gonzalez's corner threw in the towel almost simultaneously with the referee's stoppage.[citation needed]

World title challenges

[edit]

Groves vs. Froch

[edit]
Main article: Carl Froch vs. George Groves

In mid-2013 the IBF installed Groves as the mandatory challenger to titleholder Carl Froch, with a bout between them taking place on 23 November 2013 at the Phones4u Arena in Manchester; both Froch's IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles were on the line.[19] On 17 September, Groves parted ways with trainer Adam Booth.[20] In the fight, Froch stopped Groves in the ninth round amidst controversial circumstances. Groves was ahead on all three judges' scorecards, having dropped the champion in the first round with a hard counter right hand. Many observers at ringside, including fellow boxers David Haye and Amir Khan, remarked that referee Howard Foster had stepped in too quickly during an exchange in which both fighters landed heavy punches. Given the controversial nature of the stoppage, there were immediate calls for a rematch.[21]

On 24 January 2014, the IBF ordered a rematch between Froch and Groves, giving Froch 90 days to fight Groves or relinquish his IBF title.[22]

Groves vs. Froch II

[edit]
Main article: Carl Froch vs. George Groves II

On 13 February 2014, it was announced by Eddie Hearn and Matchroom Boxing that Froch v Groves II would take place on 31 May 2014 at Wembley Stadium in London, England. Froch was quoted that the fight was what the 'British public want to see' and that was his reason for taking the option to give George Groves a rematch while defending his IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles. As soon as tickets went on sale, 60,000 tickets were sold in under an hour and a further 20,000 tickets were made available, making this the biggest ever attendance for a boxing match in Britain since the Second World War.[23][24][25] As in the first fight, Froch's IBF and WBA super-middleweight titles were on the line. Prior to the fight, Groves signed with German promoters Sauerland, on what has been described as "a long-term deal".

The fight was a more cagey affair than the first match, with both fighters initially looking to outbox each other. Froch was stronger in the earlier rounds, with Jim Watt unofficially scoring the earlier rounds in favour of the champion on his Sky Sports scorecard. By the end of the seventh round, both Richie Woodhall and Steve Bunce had the fight scored 4 rounds to 3 for Froch on the BBC scorecards. Groves came out fighting in the 8th round before Froch got him pinned against the ropes and delivered a right hand blow which knocked Groves out.[26] The referee, Charlie Fitch, instantly called the fight, sensing Groves was clearly in no fit state to continue. It was later named Knockout of the Year by The Ring for 2014.[27][28]

Groves started rebuilding towards another world title match following Froch's retirement. On 20 September 2014, he won the European and vacant WBC silver super middleweight title after defeating French boxer Christopher Rebrassé via unanimous decision after 12 rounds.[29] The scorecards were 118-110, 118-110, 117-111.[30][31]

Two months later, Groves was back in the ring at the Echo Arena in Liverpool on the Tony Bellew vs. Nathan Cleverly PPV undercard. Groves knocked down American boxer Denis Douglin in round 7, winning the fight via TKO and also retaining the WBC Silver super middleweight title.[32]

Groves vs. Jack

[edit]

On 17 June 2015 it was announced that Badou Jack would make his first defence against mandatory challenger Groves on 22 August in Las Vegas. A venue had not been confirmed.[33] This fight was Groves' third world title challenge, having lost back to back challenges against then world champion Carl Froch in 2013 and 2014 respectively.[34] On 21 July, the fight was pushed back to instead take place on the undercard of Floyd Mayweather Jr. vs. Andre Berto on 12 September at the MGM Grand Garden Arena. There was no injuries as Showtime gave no reason as to why the fight was postponed. Jack was once again the underdog.[35] It was Groves' third fight in the US, as well as his third chance at a world title. Going into the fight, old foe James DeGale had voiced his support for Groves, as he himself had become IBF champion four months prior, and was looking forward to a potential rematch with world titles at stake. In the opening round, Jack scored a knockdown against Groves, but the latter was able to recover and rally back in what would become a competitive fight. At the end, the scorecards were split with 115–112 and 116–111 for Jack, and 114–113 for Groves. Groves felt as though he did enough to win and said, "Losing a world title fight is the worst feeling in the world."[36][37][38] In October 2016, Jack admitted that Groves was the toughest opponent he had faced in his career so far.[39]

Return to the ring

[edit]

Following his third failed attempt at claiming a world title, Groves had to start over. He hired Shane McGuigan as his new trainer. On 30 January 2016 Groves fought at the Copper Box in London against fringe Italian contender Andrea Di Luisa (18-3, 14 KOs). Di Luisa was down and given a count in the 4th round and down again twice in the 5th round before the towel is thrown in from his corner resulting in a TKO victory for Groves.[40]

Groves returned to the O2 Arena for the first time since 2013, on the undercard of Martin-Joshua IBF title match on 9 April. Groves knocked out undefeated David Brophy in round 4. Groves won the vacant WBA international super-middleweight title. With this win, Groves hoped to land a fight with either Martin Murray or Callum Smith next.[41][42]

Groves vs. Murray, Gutknecht

[edit]

In May, it was announced that Groves would meet domestic rival and former four-time world title challenger Martin Murray in a WBA super middleweight title eliminator on 25 June at the O2 Arena on the Anthony Joshua vs. Dominic Breazeale undercard live on Sky Box Office. Both fighters were delighted that the fight was made. Murray made weight on second attempt.[43] After a long battle, Groves defeated Murray via a 12-round unanimous decision. The three judges scored the fight at 118-110, giving Murray only two rounds. Groves hurt Murray with big right hands in rounds 7, 9 and 12. Murray had Groves looking hurt in the 10th after hitting him with a left hook to the head. Both fighters looked tired and ragged in the 12th round. Their conditioning looked less than to be desired at that point in the fight.[44]

On 18 November 2016, Groves was set to defend his International title for a second time, this time against German boxer Eduard Gutknecht (30-4-1, 13 KOs). Gutknecht had previously challenged once for the world super middleweight title and once the world light heavyweight title. The fight took place at the Wembley Arena in London. In a one-sided fight, Groves defeated Gutknecht by 12 round unanimous decision title. The judges scored it (119-110, 119-109 and 119-109) all in favour of Groves. Groves showed good boxing skills in surviving an early attack from Gutknecht in the first three rounds. Groves had to take some hard power shots and jabs. In round 9, Gutknecht took a lot of heavy blows from Groves. At the end of the round, Gutknecht’s right eye was badly swollen and almost completely shut. Gutknecht was able to catch Groves with some hard jabs that got his attention in the 9th. Gutknecht was no longer throwing power shots, which at this point was what he needed to win the rounds. Gutknecht collapsed in the dressing room following the bout and was taken to hospital where he underwent surgery for swelling to the brain.[45][46] The fight, which took place on Channel 5 on Friday night, averaged 780,000 viewers.[47]

WBA (Super) super-middleweight champion

[edit]

Groves vs. Chudinov

[edit]

On 7 December 2016, Groves confirmed via his Twitter account that he would challenge Fedor Chudinov for the vacant WBA super middleweight title. This would be his 4th attempt at a world title. Although the venue wasn't confirmed via his Twitter, Groves stated he would like to fight in London. Sauerland Events confirmed they had until 5 January 2017 to agree on a deal.[48][49] On 8 April, Kalle Sauerland tweeted that an agreement was signed for the fight to take place in the UK.[50] On 20 April, it was announced that the fight would take place at Bramall Lane in Sheffield on 27 May as part of the undercard of Brook-Spence PPV.[51] A day later, the WBA announced an immediate rematch between their 'Regular' title holder Tyron Zeage and Isaac Epko after their initial fight ended in a technical decision win for Zeage in the early rounds. The winner of both fights would then need to meet in order to decide one titleholder, as part of WBA's plans to reduce the number of world titles per division.[52]

In his fourth attempt, Groves finally became world champion when he stopped Chudinov in round six. A barrage of punches gave referee Steve Gray no choice but to halt the fight giving Groves the win. The fight was non stop action from the opening bell. After an evenly matched first two rounds, Groves took control. Groves was cut above the eye in round four after an accidental clash of heads. The official time of stoppage was 1 minute and 14 seconds. Groves spoke to Sky Sports after the fight and credited his trainer Shane McGuigan, "This is the end of a lifetime's work. Shane McGuigan has resurrected my career. Now I'm mature enough to admit that. I feel like I'm the best in the division. I'm willing and ready to fight anyone."[53][54][55] On 1 June, Groves had surgery after it was revealed that he broke his jaw in round 3 in the win against Chudinov. Groves said, That or [I] broke it from over-smiling since."[56]

World Boxing Super Series

[edit]
Main article: 2017 World Boxing Super Series - Super Middleweight division

On 16 June 2017, Groves announced that he would be the first super-middleweight to join the World Boxing Super Series tournament. The 8-man bracket-style elimination tournament, which would see the winner earn a grand cash prize as well as the 'greatest prize in boxing', the Muhammad Ali Trophy. The reason for joining was to prove that he is the best super-middleweight in the world. A draft gala was scheduled to take place on 8 July in Monaco to determine who Groves would fight in the quarter-finals.[57][58] Groves hinted that he could possibly retire from boxing if he was to win the tournament. Groves said, “If I win this tournament I could walk away from boxing satisfied as a unified world champion.” He also said that if the next WBSS tournament took place at light heavyweight, he would be willing to move up and participate.[59]

Groves vs. Cox

[edit]
Main article: George Groves vs. Jamie Cox

At the Draft Gala on 8 July, Groves, who was first-seeded, meaning he had the option to select his opponent, choose to fight undefeated British boxer Jamie Cox (23-0, 13 KOs).[60] Groves explained, picking Cox was a '"strategic" move and due to the tournament being long, it would be best to "pick the easy guy first".[61] Cox was ranked #9 by the WBA at the time.[62] AG Comosa announced the fight would take place on 14 October 2017 at The SSE Arena in Wembley, London. Groves' WBA title would also be at stake as well the winner advancing to the semi-finals against the winner of Chris Eubank Jr. and Avni Yildrim. Groves took back his earlier words of saying Cox was the easiest, "I know there are no easy fights in this tournament and there are no easy fights at world level, but Jamie is the guy I know the most about."[63][64] Groves retained his title and advanced to the semi-finals of the tournament in a competitive bout which came to an end in round 4. A perfectly placed right hand to the body send Cox down in pain. Referee Steve Gray counted him out at 1 minute, 42 seconds into the round. The fight started with both boxers feeling each other out and trading sporadically. Cox boxed well for the first two rounds however seemed a little reckless in doing so. Groves boxed sensibly, waiting for counter shots.[65] Chris Eubank Jr., who was sat ringside, entered the ring, giving his thoughts on the fight, "It was a good fight, he did what he had to win, not too many cuts and bruises so it looks like we're on for January. That's what we wanted."[66] Groves spoke about his fallen opponent, "I picked him because I believe he was the most dangerous of the unseeded fighters. I didn't want an easy fight."[67] Groves landed 48 of 163 punches thrown (29%), 42 of them being power shots. Cox landed 36 of 131 thrown (28%).[68]

Groves vs. Eubank Jr.

[edit]
Main article: George Groves vs. Chris Eubank Jr.

Due to winning their respective bouts in October 2017, Groves and Chris Eubank Jr. (26-1, 20 KOs) were due to meet in the semi-final of the tournament. At first, promoter Kalle Sauerland stated he would try to book the fight for a stadium in either London or Manchester. In November 2017, ITV reported the fight was set to take place on 17 February 2018 at the Manchester Arena in Manchester, Europe’s largest purpose-built indoor arena. The winner of the fight would earn his place in the final of the tournament as well as walk out with the WBA (Super) and IBO super-middleweight titles.[69][70][71] Tickets for the fight sold out in seven minutes.[72] Groves weighed 167 pounds, a full pound under the weight limit and Eubank came in at 167.5 pounds.[73] Eubank Jr was ranked #2 both by the WBC and WBA at the time.[74]

Groves secured his place in the final of the tournament after defeating Eubank over 12 rounds. The judges scored the fight 117-112, 116-112 and 115-113 for Groves. Groves, the bigger man in the ring, used his jab to control the fight after a cagey round and mostly fought on the back foot, occasionally landing the big shot. An accidental clash of heads caused Eubank to receive a cut on the side of his right eye in round 3. The big cut was dealt with by his corner after the round, but as the fight went on to the later rounds, blood was seen flowing expeditiously. Many thought Eubanks cutman was inadequate in his attempt to stop the cut, Eubank later said he struggled to see out the eye. The fight was riddled with a lot of clinches and unclean punches from both boxers. Groves retained his WBA title but did not claim Eubank's IBO title as he did not pay their sanctioning fees. Groves also suffered a dislocated shoulder in round 12. It was said that Groves weighed around 184 pounds on fight night. After the fight, Groves said, “It was about who wanted it most, I think, and I obviously wanted it most. The jab was landing correctly all night. When he had success, it was because I did something wrong. He was strong, he was aggressive, but that obviously wasn’t enough tonight.” Eubank replied, “I thought it was close. I thought I did enough in the later rounds to win the fight, but it was a close fight. And all credit to George. You know, this is all part of boxing. You win some and you lose some. Hopefully we can get a rematch. It was enough of a good fight to have another one.”[75][76][77] Punch stats showed that Groves landed 117 of 398 punches thrown (29%) and Eubank landed 92 of his 421 thrown (22%). Many pundits and former boxers stated Eubank should move forward and hire a trainer.[78][79][80][81] Both boxers earned a base purse of £1.5 million, which could increase due to sponsorship and PPV sales.[82] Four days after the fight it was revealed Groves didn't fight for the IBO belt after failing to agree on sanctioning fees with the IBO's president Ed Levine.[83]

Groves vs. Callum Smith

[edit]
Main article: George Groves vs. Callum Smith

On 13 February, it was announced that the final of the super-middleweight tournament would take place at the O2 Arena in London on 2 June 2018.[84] The final was made up after Groves defeated Eubank Jr. on 17 February and Callum Smith (24-0, 17 KOs) defeating Nieky Holzken on 24 February.[85] On 26 February, Groves tweeted that he would be going into surgery. He wrote, "We will be applying to the @WBSuperSeries for a one-month extension and are hopeful of securing this." He hoped to return to the ring by July.[86][87]

On 9 May, Kalle Sauerland said that Groves could potentially be replaced by Chris Eubank Jr. in the final of the tournament against Smith, however there would be confirmation on the final in the next 10 days. Sauerland stated, "We're working at the moment on all the solutions and scenarios, where George [Groves] is fit and where he isn't. We're hopeful [Groves will be fit], so we'll see. You can't start the tournament and then have the final lingering into the next tournament. I'm sorry, that's not going to happen. We can push a month, but we can’t push it back by three or four months. We have a substitute system. We said that from day one, and that’s the situation. We want Groves in the final, but if that’s not possible and he doesn't declare himself fit in the next 10 days, we have to find a solution."[88][89] On 28 May, it was said that Groves would be declared fit with the fight to take place on 14 July.[90] By 6 July, there was still no date set, however according to Kalle Sauerland, the bout was expected to take place in September and likely not in the UK, with some rumours hinting there was a strong interest from Las Vegas and Middle East. Smith's trainer Joe Gallagher confirmed contracts had been signed.[91][92] On 27 July, Sauerland announced the fight would take place at a 10,000 capacity arena at the King Abdullah Sports City Complex in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia on 28 September 2018.[93][94][95] It was reported the prize money on offer for the final was £6.1 million, with the winner taking a larger percentage.[96] Smith was ranked #1 by the WBC and #4 by the WBA at super middleweight.[97]

After a tight match with the fighters level on the judges' scorecards, Smith defeated Groves by round 7 knockout.[98] The size difference was noticeable as the fight was fought closely throughout the opening 6 rounds with back and forth action. Early in the fight, Groves established his jab whilst trying to avoid any power shots from Smith, whilst Smith was connecting with his right hand. Smith had more success in round 3 after a counter-right hand buckled Groves legs. In round 6, Smith backed Groves against the ropes and landed two strong jabs. He later landed a clean left hook which forced Groves to move back. Midway through round 7, Groves landed two body shots, however leaving himself open, Smith landed a left hook, which again shook Groves and forced him to retreat backwards. Groves was hurt at this point and Smith went after Groves against the ropes and landed numerous shots, including a hard body shot and an uppercut, ultimately sending Groves to the canvas. Groves managed to get to one knee, before referee Luis Pabon finished the 10-count, giving Smith the win. Groves made no excuses, claiming the shoulder was never an issue in the fight. He also ruled out retirement. Muhammad Ali's daughter presented Smith with the trophy. Smith claimed the WBA super-middleweight title along with the vacant Ring Magazine title. Smith became the third super-middleweight after Joe Calzaghe and Andre Ward to win the Ring belt.[99][100][101] There were four official judge's scorecards. One judge had it even after 6 rounds at 57–57, two judges had Groves ahead 59–55 and 58–56 and one judge had Smith ahead 59–55.[102][103]

Retirement

[edit]

On 28 January 2019, at the age of 30, Groves announced his retirement from professional boxing, stating, "I don't want there to be a time where I'm 'too old' to box, or where injury retires me." In a long statement, he highlighted some career events and offered a prayer for Eduard Gutknecht. Groves ended his career on 28 wins, with 20 coming inside the distance and 4 losses.[104][105]

Professional boxing record

[edit]
32 fights 28 wins 4 losses
By knockout 20 3
By decision 8 1
No. Result Record Opponent Type Round, time Date Location Notes
32 Loss 28–4 Callum Smith KO 7 (12), 2:04 28 Sep 2018 King Abdullah Sports City, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia Lost WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;
For vacant The Ring super-middleweight title;
World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight final
31 Win 28–3 Chris Eubank Jr. UD 12 17 Feb 2018 Manchester Arena, Manchester, England Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;
World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight semi-final
30 Win 27–3 Jamie Cox KO 4 (12), 1:42 14 Oct 2017 The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England Retained WBA (Super) super-middleweight title;
World Boxing Super Series: super-middleweight quarter-final
29 Win 26–3 Fedor Chudinov TKO 6 (12), 1:14 27 May 2017 Bramall Lane, Sheffield, England Won vacant WBA (Super) super-middleweight title
28 Win 25–3 Eduard Gutknecht UD 12 18 Nov 2016 The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England Retained WBA International super-middleweight title
27 Win 24–3 Martin Murray UD 12 25 Jun 2016 The O2 Arena, London, England Retained WBA International super-middleweight title
26 Win 23–3 David Brophy KO 4 (12), 0:47 9 Apr 2016 The O2 Arena, London, England Won vacant WBA International super-middleweight title
25 Win 22–3 Andrea Di Luisa TKO 5 (12), 1:55 30 Jan 2016 Copper Box Arena, London, England
24 Loss 21–3 Badou Jack SD 12 12 Sep 2015 MGM Grand Garden Arena, Paradise, Nevada, US For WBC super-middleweight title
23 Win 21–2 Denis Douglin TKO 7 (12), 2:54 22 Nov 2014 Echo Arena, Liverpool, England Retained WBC Silver super-middleweight title
22 Win 20–2 Christopher Rebrassé UD 12 20 Sep 2014 The SSE Arena Wembley, London, England Won European and vacant WBC Silver super-middleweight titles
21 Loss 19–2 Carl Froch KO 8 (12), 2:34 31 May 2014 Wembley Stadium, London, England For WBA (Unified) and IBF super-middleweight titles
20 Loss 19–1 Carl Froch TKO 9 (12), 1:33 23 Nov 2013 Phones4u Arena, Manchester, England For WBA (Unified) and IBF super-middleweight titles
19 Win 19–0 Noé González Alcoba TKO 5 (12), 0:51 25 May 2013 The O2 Arena, London, England Won vacant WBA Inter-Continental super-middleweight title
18 Win 18–0 Baker Barakat TKO 2 (8), 2:20 23 Mar 2013 GETEC Arena, Magdeburg, Germany
17 Win 17–0 Dario German Balmaceda TKO 3 (10), 0:58 9 Mar 2013 Wembley Arena, London, England
16 Win 16–0 Glen Johnson UD 12 15 Dec 2012 ExCeL, London, England Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title
15 Win 15–0 Francisco Sierra TKO 6 (10), 2:15 28 Jul 2012 HP Pavilion, San Jose, California, US
14 Win 14–0 Paul Smith TKO 2 (12), 1:18 5 Nov 2011 Wembley Arena, London, England Retained British and Commonwealth super-middleweight titles
13 Win 13–0 James DeGale MD 12 21 May 2011 The O2 Arena, London, England Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title;
Won British super-middleweight title
12 Win 12–0 Daniel Adotey Allotey TKO 4 (8), 1:53 5 Mar 2011 Leisure Centre, Huddersfield, England
11 Win 11–0 Kenny Anderson TKO 6 (12), 2:35 13 Nov 2010 MEN Arena, Manchester, England Retained Commonwealth super-middleweight title
10 Win 10–0 Alfredo Contreras TKO 6 (8), 0:48 31 Jul 2010 Mandalay Bay Events Center, Paradise, Nevada, US
9 Win 9–0 Charles Adamu TKO 6 (12), 2:51 3 Apr 2010 MEN Arena, Manchester, England Won Commonwealth super-middleweight title
8 Win 8–0 Grigor Sarohanian TKO 3 (6) 22 Jan 2010 Brentwood Centre, Brentwood, England
7 Win 7–0 Konstantin Makhankov UD 8 7 Nov 2009 Nuremberg Arena, Nuremberg, Germany
6 Win 6–0 Tadas Jonkus TKO 4 (6), 1:49 16 Oct 2009 Seaburn Centre, Sunderland, England
5 Win 5–0 Martins Kukulis TKO 5 (8), 2:50 4 Oct 2009 York Hall, London, England
4 Win 4–0 Sandor Polgar TKO 1 (6), 1:54 25 Apr 2009 Ulster Hall, Belfast, Northern Ireland
3 Win 3–0 Paul Samuels TKO 1 (6), 2:31 28 Mar 2009 Echo Arena, Liverpool, England
2 Win 2–0 Romaric Hignard TKO 3 (6), 1:48 1 Feb 2009 York Hall, London, England
1 Win 1–0 Kirilas Psonko PTS 6 15 Nov 2008 The O2 Arena, London, England

Pay-per-view bouts

[edit]
United Kingdom
No. Date Fight Network Buys Source(s)
1 21 May 2011 George Groves vs. James DeGale Sky Box Office 43,000 [106]
2 23 November 2013 Carl Froch vs. George Groves Sky Box Office 47,000 [107]
3 31 May 2014 Carl Froch vs. George Groves II Sky Box Office 355,000 [108]
4 14 October 2017 George Groves vs. Jamie Cox ITV Box Office
5 17 February 2018 George Groves vs. Chris Eubank Jr. ITV Box Office
6 28 September 2018 George Groves vs. Callum Smith ITV Box Office
Total sales 445,000

References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b Sky Box Office tale of the tape prior to Froch–Groves II.
  2. ^ Cole, Jackson (27 September 2018) "George Groves claims his shoulder surgery in lead up to World Boxing Super Series final was way more painful than Carl Froch knockout". Talksport. Retrieved 20 March 2020.
  3. ^ List of ABA champions 2000's Archived 8 March 2009 at the Wayback Machine. ABAE. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  4. ^ "ABAE | George Groves". Archived from the original on 13 October 2008. Retrieved 23 November 2008.
  5. ^ London middleweight George Groves will be watching the action from Beijing with a heavy heart, writes Tris Dixon. Boxing News. 8 August 2008
  6. ^ Chaudry, Ziad (19 November 2008) George revelling in joy of six. Kilburn Times
  7. ^ Groves destroys Polgar. Boxingnews24 (26 April 2009). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  8. ^ Groves signs with Maloney Archived 4 October 2009 at the Wayback Machine. Eastside Boxing. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  9. ^ Groves takes super middleweight title. The Daily Telegraph. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  10. ^ Groves marks american debut with win in Las Vegas. Sky Sports (1 August 2010). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  11. ^ Groves survives Anderson war. Sky Sports (17 November 2010). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  12. ^ Groves glides past Ghanain. Sky Sports (4 May 2011). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  13. ^ Hassan, Nabil. (21 May 2011) BBC Sport | George Groves stuns James DeGale to win British title. BBC News. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  14. ^ a b "George Groves and James DeGale set for rematch – Frank Warren". BBC Sport. BBC. 25 August 2011. Retrieved 18 October 2012.
  15. ^ George Groves stuns Paul Smith to retain titles. BBC Sport. (5 November 2011). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  16. ^ "George Groves Stops Francisco Sierra in Six". badlefthook. 28 July 2012. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  17. ^ "George Groves beats veteran Glen Johnson on points". BBC Boxing. 15 December 2012. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  18. ^ "George Groves handed South American Noe Gonzalez Alcoba in May". Sky Sports. 8 May 2013. Retrieved 24 November 2016.
  19. ^ Carl Froch to defend titles against George Groves. BBC Sport. (23 July 2013). Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  20. ^ Dooley, Terence (17 September 2013). "George Groves, Adam Booth Have Decided To Part Ways". BoxingScene. Retrieved 17 September 2013.
  21. ^ Carl Froch retains titles with controversial stoppage win over George Groves. Sky Sports. Retrieved on 25 November 2013.
  22. ^ "Carl Froch ordered to have George Groves rematch by IBF". BBC Sport. Retrieved 22 September 2014.
  23. ^ Dirs, Ben (4 March 2014). "Carl Froch v George Groves: Wembley Stadium to host rematch". BBC Sport. BBC. Retrieved 2014-03-04.
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[edit]
Sporting positions
Amateur boxing titles
Previous:
James DeGale 		ABA middleweight champion
2007, 2008 		Next:
Hosea Burton
Regional boxing titles
Preceded by Commonwealth
super-middleweight champion
3 April 2010 – September 2013
Vacated 		Vacant
Title next held by
Rocky Fielding
Preceded by
James DeGale
 British super-middleweight champion
21 May 2011 – October 2012
Vacated 		Vacant
Title next held by
Kenny Anderson
Vacant
Title last held by
Stjepan Božić 		WBA Inter-Continental
super-middleweight champion
25 May 2013 – 23 November 2013
Lost bid for world title 		Vacant
Title next held by
Rocky Fielding
Preceded by European
super-middleweight champion
20 September 2014 – November 2014
Vacated 		Vacant
Title next held by
Hadillah Mohoumadi
Vacant
Title last held by
James DeGale 		WBC Silver
super-middleweight champion
20 September 2014 – 12 September 2015
Lost bid for world title 		Vacant
Title next held by
Callum Smith
Vacant
Title last held by
Frank Buglioni 		WBA International
super-middleweight champion
9 April 2016 – 27 May 2017
Won world title 		Vacant
Title next held by
Viktor Polyakov
Major world boxing titles
Vacant
Title last held by
Felix Sturm 		WBA super-middleweight champion
Super title
27 May 2017 – 28 September 2018 		Succeeded by
Callum Smith
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