By Terence Dooley, Video by Declan Taylor

As previously reported on krikya360.com, Eddie Hearn hosted a double presser in London earlier today to unveil new signing Dillian Whyte (16-1, 13 KOs) as well as bringing George Groves (23-3, 18 early) and Martin Murray (33-3-1, 16 stoppages) face-to-face ahead of their June 25 fight at London's O2 Arena.  Groves's WBA International title is on the line in that one and it also serves as an eliminator for the WBA Super middleweight world title.

Both George Groves and Martin Murray are desperate to get their hands on a world title.  They have had seven world title fights between them yet have come up short when it matters.  The winner of their clash can move on to the world scene and it is very much a crossroads fight.

“I'm very, very excited for George Groves against Martin Murray in a Super middleweight WBA world title eliminator,” said Hearn when confirming it will double up as an eliminator.

“I’m looking forward to this fight the most on the night—it’s a real throwback fight,” added Sky’s Adam Smith.

Groves is represented by the Sauerlands, who believe they can guide the Londoner to a world title. 

“This is a division that we have a rich history in as a company,” stated Kalle, representing Groves.  “George with Shane [McGuigan] is very much is back on track.  Neither Martin nor George has been outclassed in any of their world title fights.”

“This is the first real challenge for us a team,” admitted McGuigan.  “George is maturing a lot as a fighter.  Martin took [Gennady] Golovkin 11 rounds.  George can whack—I’m excited for him to put on a performance and be fight of the night.”

“I like Martin Murray—he speaks well,” said Groves.  “He fights intelligently.  He has moved up to Super middleweight and yet to be tested.  This is a fight that everyone can get excited about and one that will steal the show.  I’m looking to take Martin out.”

Murray also spoke confidently about the fight, telling the assembled press that he asked Hearn to make it as soon as he hit 168lbs.  He said: “I wanted this fight and pushed Eddie for this.  I’ve always wanted the big domestic clashes.  George is a good lad and he’s confident, but so am I—I will win this.

“Workrate is key in this fight.  George is a genuine Super middleweight, but I’ve proved against (Arthur) Abraham that I can mix at world level.  Earlier in the fight favours George as he fades late.  I’m the favourite the longer it goes.”

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