Groves takes European title with points win

George Groves became European super-middleweight champion with a points victory against Christopher Rebrasse in their WBC world title eliminator at Wembley Arena.

Groves, who has also held the British and Commonwealth titles, was short of his best in his first outing since being knocked out by Carl Froch in their rematch in May.

Frenchman Rebrasse didn’t let his belt go without a battle, absorbing some heavy shots and at times troubling Groves as the Hammersmith man tired in the later rounds.

Groves, 26, was nevertheless a clear winner and is now in line for a third world title shot following his two defeats against WBA and IBF champion Froch – the WBC title is currently held by unbeaten American Anthony Dirrell.

Groves started at a frenetic pace and rocked Rebrasse in the third round, while the Londoner’s jab was a persistent and effective weapon.

As the pace slowed, Rebrasse had more success, including during an explosive eighth round in which the pair traded heavy shots.

Although his opponent, who has never been stopped, was durable and still strong in the closing rounds, Groves always had the edge in terms of hand speed and variety of shots.

Two of the judges scored the bout 118-110 in his favour, with another making it 117-111.

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