The popular Londoner’s run in the sport included some of the biggest nights in British boxing history as he engaged in memorable conflicts against the likes of James DeGale and Carl Froch . 

Turning professional in 2008, Groves entered the sport with a readymade rivalry due to his history with DeGale as the pair were amateur foes despite both representing the same Dale Youth ABC. 

In 2011, the pair collided for British title honours, and it was Groves who had his hand raised following a tight encounter at London’s O2 Arena. 

Moving onto world level, Groves would come face to face with Froch in 2013 and after being controversially stopped after dropping Froch earlier in the fight, Groves had plenty of public support that led to a rematch the following year. 

Then, in front of a huge crowd at Wembley Stadium, Groves was unable to level the series as he was caught by a huge right hand in round eight that he could not recover from. 

In 2017, Groves would finally become world champion after stopping Fedor Chudinov in Sheffield on the undercard of Kell Brook’s harsh loss to Errol Spence. 

Two successful defences against Jamie Cox and Chris Eubank Jr legitimised Groves’ standing in the super-middleweight division, but his world would come crashing down when he was halted by Smith in 2018. 

Reflecting on his career, who does Groves consider to be the best fighter he ever faced during his 32-fight career. 

“I never ever fought anyone who I didn't think I couldn't beat,” said Groves when speaking to DAZN News via Sportscasting.com . 

“Froch was tough. Those fights also came with a lot of pressure. Callum was a good fighter. Badou Jack was an underrated fighter. 

“I think James DeGale at the time I fought him was a very tough guy to beat. He had fast hands, and he could also generate a lot of power. Sod it, I’ll give it to James DeGale.” 

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