Groves back with a unanimous decision verdict to claim European crown and WBC mandatory position

Photo Credit: Philip Sharkey

‘Saint’ George Groves (20-2, 15 KOs) returned in style on Saturday night. The Hammersmith boxer announced himself back on the world scene with a unanimous decision verdict over the tough Frenchman Christopher Rebrasse (22-3-3, 6 KOs) in a final eliminator for the WBC World Super Middleweight title.

‘’It feels great to be back,’’ said Groves. ‘’Rebrasse was a good opponent, a very tough guy, he took an awful lot of shots and kept coming. I knew it was going to be a hard fight. I felt in good condition but you always have to be cautious against a guy that has never been stopped. I want to entertain, I want to knock people out. I didn’t manage that tonight but I gave it real good go. Things are only going to get better from here. We’re getting ready to take over the world!’’

The former British and Commonwealth Champion can now add the European and WBC Silver titles to his impressive resume, and prepare for a mandatory challenge for Anthony Dirrell’s WBC belt. ‘’Dirrell has already made some statements, he’s a bit cheeky, a little bit outspoken,’’ said Groves. ‘’He’s been quite disrespectful to Rebrasse. I knock out a lot of guys and Rebrasse took some big shots, I’m not sure Dirrell could stand up to some of the punches I landed tonight. He has said he doesn’t want to fight me, that he doesn’t want to come to the UK but now he may just have to.’’

Promoter Kalle Sauerland was pleased with what he saw in the ring and at the post-fight press conference revealed he is ready to begin negotiations for a WBC World title fight. ‘’Before this fight I described George as one of the most exciting boxers on the planet,’’ said Sauerland.  ‘’After tonight’s performance my mind hasn’t changed one bit. We’re ready to start to talking to Dirrell’s people. I don’t see any other options for them, there are no bigger fights out there. George is a natural entertainer inside and outside the ring. He has a style that would be very appealing to a US audience.’’