Super-middleweight final likely to be late August or early September
Tuesday 29 May 2018 17:54, UK
George Groves will be fit to face Callum Smith in the final of the super-middleweight World Boxing Super Series.
The No 1 seed has been declared fit following a shoulder injury and will finally face Smith, in late August or early September, for the inaugural Muhammad Ali Trophy.
The final was originally scheduled for July 2, only for Groves to undergo surgery to his left shoulder, which he dislocated in the final round of his unanimous points win over Chris Eubank Jr.
Comosa AG's Head of Boxing Kalle Sauerland said: "As is the nature of injuries, especially the type of injury that George suffered, getting an exact recovery date is nearly impossible," said
"We have been clear that the tournament has to finish within a certain timeframe, but we also realise that Groves vs Smith is the most ideal final. By pushing the super-middleweight final date back as far as we can, we are giving fans the biggest chance of seeing this incredible match-up."
The injury recovery has been fine, it is just like we said it would be. It was a dislocated shoulder that required surgery to stabilise the joint
Groves will also put his WBA world title on the line and will be making the third defence of the title he won in Sheffield on May 27, 2017.
The 'Saint' started punching again at the end of April and has now been given medical clearance for the delayed showdown with Smith.
Groves said: "It is nice to get a provisional date. We have got something to work towards now. I have been in the gym for a while now, so when we get an exact date we can focus in.
"The injury recovery has been fine, it is just like we said it would be. It was a dislocated shoulder that required surgery to stabilise the joint."
Smith has also been dealing with an elbow injury but has always said he wants to face Groves, not Chris Eubank Jr, the beaten semi-finalist, who had been put on standby by the WBSS.
The Liverpudlian is the second seed in the super-middleweight tournament and will now get his first world title shot, following brothers' Liam, Paul and Stephen.
Smith said: "I've been ticking over in the gym and staying prepared, but now I can switch on and aim towards a late summer date. Now that we have the date, even a rough one, I'm excited."
"The fact that the final of the Ali Trophy is against George and for his title, I am made up. I have been waiting for a world title fight and feel like I have been unlucky at missing out on opportunities, but now I've finally got it."
