Despite George Groves’ best efforts, the man just can’t seem to catch a break in world title fights. The Londoner, now 3-0 in title contests, and 2-3 in his last five bouts, lost a close decision to Badou Jack on last weekend’s Mayweather-Berto undercard. Heart. Skills. Warrior spirit. But as of yet, still no title.
Groves (21-3, 16 KO) is in an awkward place right now. Since his performance against Jack was so absorbing and competitive, a tune-up isn’t really necessary. In fact, it wouldn’t be surprising if he’d gained more fans despite losing the Split Decision.
But where does he go from here? Target another big gun of the Super Middleweight division? Groves recently told Sky Sports he’s going to take some time to work out the answer to that question, something his promoter Sauerland Events supports.
“Ultimately it doesn’t matter how you lose a world title fight, the feeling is much the same,” Groves said. … “I came very close to achieving a lifelong goal but it wasn’t to be. I’m now going to spend some time with my family and decide upon my future.”
And it seems old Amateur and pro rival James DeGale is on hand to add further insult to Groves’ raw injury. DeGale (21-1, 14 KO), who lost a 2011 razor thin decision to Groves (and won the IBF title against Andre Dirrell in May 2015), has offered a rematch. But the insult’s in the offer itself:
“As I said, I’m in boxing for the big fights and if the British public want it and demand it, let’s do it,” DeGale said. “But we’ll have to negotiate the purse. Maybe 90 [per cent for me]… 10 per cent to him. We’ll see.”
Ah, how nice of DeGale to remind Groves who the boss is. Claws out, indeed.
So where should George Groves go from here? Does he need a confidence-booster bout? Or should he gun for another big name – even DeGale himself, if the numbers are a little more ‘realistic’?
Mark Phillips is the Head Staff Writer/Assistant Editor at BoxingBase.com, and provides worldwide news, coverage and analysis – he can be reached via our Contact Page.
