A deep sigh of relief echoed in the boxing world when the news became official that George Groves would still be taking part in the World Boxing Super Series final.
The super middleweight tournament would have never received the proper ending without ‘The Saint’ and luckily for Callum Smith, he gets to fulfill his wish of fighting Groves in the biggest stage possible for him.
All done. The news I’ve been waiting for. World Boxing Super Series Final #GrovesSmith 💥 https://t.co/MsUgBE1KMApic.twitter.com/waruo5XdJt
— Callum Smith (@CallumSmith23) May 29, 2018
“I’m very happy he’s been medically cleared, I’ve made no secret that it’s the fight I want and the one I’ve wanted for a long time,” said Smith according to Sky Sports.
Smith admits that Groves and his WBA super middleweight title are the main reasons why the number No. 2 seed entered the tournament in the first place. After defeating Erik Skoglund, Nieky Holzken, and surviving a small scare of Groves possibly getting shelved, he will finally get his shot at world champion honours.
“George Groves and his world title are two big reasons why I entered this tournament, to beat him and become a world champion.
“He was the champion coming into the tournament and although if he had lost I would have still fought for a world title, Groves was the No. 1 seed, so beating him is better for me all around,” explained the WBC Diamond belt holder.
The Muhammad Ali Trophy Final is schedulled to take place either in August or early September which gives both fighters ample time to get in top form.
“Late August or early September are the scheduled dates so I can get in camp and prepare for around then. The fact it is Groves is enough for me, whether it’s next month or in five months’ time, I don’t care – I just want to beat Groves and win the world title,” said the Liverpudlian.
‘Mundo’ believes he possesses the tools to get through Groves and calls the Londoner ‘vulnerable.’
“It’s a massive test and Groves will be, by far, the best fighter I’ve faced but I’ve always said that the better the opposition, the better I will perform.
“I need a big performance and that’s what I’ll deliver. I have a lot of respect for Groves, he’s a great, dangerous, fighter and has achieved so much in the game. He’s been there and done it, but I’m confident I have the style to beat him.
“I’m expecting an explosive fight, Groves is a big puncher but he’s also vulnerable.”
ALSO: