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Calzaghe tips Groves as one for the future


RAZZ-MCFC
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Former super-middleweight great Joe Calzaghe insists Commonwealth champion George Groves can one day emulate him and capture a world title.

 

The 22-year-old Hammersmith fighter will put his belt on the line for the first time on October 30 when he takes on Ghana's James Obede Toney at York Hall, Bethnal Green - live on Sky Sports - and is regarded hot favourite for victory.

 

Calzaghe, who retired with an undefeated record from 46 fights, was on hand in London last week to watch WBA heavyweight champion David Haye undertake sparring duties ahead of the November 13 title defence against Audley Harrison at the MEN Arena in Manchester.

 

But while the Welsh legend Calzaghe was impressed with the form of the 'Hayemaker', he was also alerted to the potential of super-middleweight Groves (10-0, 8KOs) working in another corner.

 

"It was great to be able to visit the gym and watch guys like David and George go about their work," said Calzaghe, a former WBO, WBC and IBF champion. "Watching those young guys go through their paces reminded me of when I used to work out in the gym ahead of a fight.

 

"I watched George on the pads and he impressed me a lot. He's very sharp, quick and seems to have every shot in the book. He's only going to get better, too, as he's surrounded by other good fighters in the gym and success breeds success. He's definitely someone to keep an eye on in my old weight division."

 

Calzaghe, 38, reigned as world champion for over 10 years before punctuating his career with light-heavyweight wins over boxing legends Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones, Jr.

 

Now two years since retiring, Calzaghe would love a fellow Brit to rise to the top of the super-middleweight class although he accepts Groves still has a long way to go.

 

"It takes a lot of time, dedication and patience to reign for a decade, and I'm proud of what I achieved in the sport," he said. "George is right at the beginning of his journey now and he's still growing as a fighter. He seems hungry to prove himself and doesn't want to be held back. That's a good attitude to have at this point.

 

"So long as he gets the right fights at the right time, and continues to learn as he goes, his talent will take him all the way. He's a standout prospect in the division and I'm excited to see how he progresses in the coming years."

 

http://www.sportinglife.com/boxing/news/story_get.cgi?STORY_NAME=boxing/10/10/18/manual_163147.html

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Really looking forard to his next fight as ive just got confirmation im going :)

 

Telboy will you be attending this one (off topic sorry) and whats the York Hall like? Views etc

 

have you got tickets Ian?

 

Groves posted on his facebook before that tickets are sold out

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Just had it confirmed by my pal that we have tickets for this so 100% going.

 

Should be a good night, years since i done the London thing.

 

Whats your prediction Razz?

 

haha so Cloughie pulled through finally?

 

i reckon Groves should stop him mid rounds mate what about you?

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yeah im going for a mid round stoppage pal. Looking foward to seeing the York Hall, mand yeah Cloughie pulled his finger out and got us some ringside so cant complain. Not free though i might add so he's not done that well lol

 

haha he's top notch, funny guy

 

you should have a cracking weekend anyway

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