George Groves has had more than his fair share of humbling experiences in the ring, coming up short twice to Carl Froch, and most recently losing a Split Decision to Badou Jack. But the Super Middleweight contender hasn’t lost sight of his ambitions to win a world title, and now, with esteemed trainer Shane McGuigan in tow, believes he can accomplish that goal.
Groves, 27, has been trained by Adam Booth for much of his career, followed by a short stint with Paddy Fitzpatrick before teaming up with McGuigan. Groves, who is set to face Andrea Di Luise on January 30th at the Copper Box Arena, London, will be training alongside popular domestic talents David Haye and Carl Frampton.
Once Groves crushes Di Luise – yes, it’s a given – the Londoner has plans to avenge his September defeat to WBC champion Badou Jack. Grove’s chances of landing a rematch would seem very likely, so long as he performs well while staging his comeback.
Groves, our No.6 168-pounder, put on a valiant, spirited effort against Jack, picking himself off the canvas early to fight 12 hard rounds. And for what it’s worth, Boxing Base’s card actually had Groves ahead.
“I am happy and excited to be back and to be joining a new, exciting and dynamic team of young hungry fighters with a fantastic trainer,” Groves told Boxing News. “I’ve found the past few weeks working with Shane rejuvenating. I’m back punching hard, enjoying my boxing and am now eager to get back to winning ways.”
“The loss earlier this year to Badou Jack was a close and frustrating one and I hope to avenge that defeat as soon as possible; starting on January 30th with a KO win.”
Will George Groves be fourth time lucky against Jack in a potential rematch? And can McGuigan smooth out any rough edges on the British star?
