In an exclusive interview with WBN, mandatory super-middleweight contender John Ryder gave his thoughts on George Groves.
Groves is yet to decide on his future following a loss to Callum Smith, the fighter who, ironically, Ryder is hoping to face in 2019.
Ryder has worked his way to the number one spot for Smith’s WBA title and believes Groves should return at the higher weight.
“Yeah, it would be good to see George back. I just hope his injury is fully healed up. He’s still got a lot to offer the sport,” Ryder exclusively told World Boxing News.
“I’m not sure he’ll continue at super middleweight, maybe a fit up to light heavyweight where he could potentially try and work that lot out. There are plenty of fights for him and a lot of big names.”
When asked about the prospects of Groves in his return, Ryder answered confidently: “I still believe he can win another world title, even though the DeGale fight is always going to be there for him.
“There could also be the Callum Smith or the Eubank rematch. There’s always going to be big fights for him.”
DEGALE v EUBANK JR
James DeGale vs. Chris Eubank Jr. looks set to go in January after weeks of talks and rumors. Still, to be formally announced, Ryder pondered on the fight happening.
“I did hear December, and now it’s January, but the months have been going by, and nothing is being announced,” he pointed out.
“I think it’s a good fight. It’s good for both, I saw Jimmy Mac (Jim McDonnell, DeGale’s trainer) the other week, and he said James is back to his best and he’s injury-free and firing on all cylinders.
“As long as we see the best James DeGale against the best Chris Eubank Jr., we’ll be in for a treat,” Ryder concluded.
Chandler Waller is a staff writer for World Boxing News. Follow Chandler on Twitter @ChandlerWaller.
