Joshua vs Breazeale: Preview of George Groves v Martin Murray
Saturday 25 June 2016 22:16, UK
Your one-stop preview of the crucial super-middleweight encounter between George Groves and Martin Murray at The O2.
Background
It's the fight neither man can afford to lose. With no fewer than seven failed world title challenges between them, defeat for either would almost certainly spell the end of any chance at a future on the world stage.
It's also the fight few can seem to call with any degree of confidence. Groves has height and possible technical advantages, but some doubt his engine, while Murray is hardened at the top level and remains the only man to have taken middleweight kingpin Gennady Golovkin to an 11th round.
The match-up, which many believe will eclipse the other bouts on the night, serves as a WBA eliminator for the world super-middleweight title currently held by Giovanni De Carolis.
What the fighters say
What the experts say
I think George has got a great jab but I believe Martin has got the better engine. George looked like his old self against David Brophy.
It's just as much about who loses this one. If Groves loses then he might as well retire. And I don't mean to be horrible, but he's lost out on three world title attempts already.
Before the fight was made, I thought Groves but I think it might be tough for him late and the closer and closer the fight gets, I'm leaning towards Murray.
This is the definition of a 50-50 fight and I think it will go to points. They've both got the skill and the heart. They're quite similar fighters.
The weigh-in
Groves: 11st 13lbs 8oz
Murray: 11st 13lb 12oz (initially 12st 1oz)
The time draws near...
Watch George Groves vs Martin Murray as part of Joshua vs Breazeale, live on Sky Sports Box Office from The O2, on June 25. Book the event via your Sky remote or online here.
