Groves weighs in ahead of title showdown

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George Groves weighed in a shade under the 12-stone super-middleweight limit ahead of his British and Commonwealth title defence against Paul Smith at Wembley Arena.

Smith, 29, was a fraction lighter at 11st 13lb 3oz when the pair met for the final time before they will face each other in the ring.

Groves is unbeaten in 13 pro fights

The fight will be Groves’ first since his points victory over bitter rival and fellow West Londoner James DeGale in May.

He was given a great reception at the O2 Arena that night and the Hammersmith fighter is sure to receive similar support from the near sell-out crowd on Saturday.

Liverpudlian Smith, who was British champion before being outclassed by DeGale in December last year, knows that beating Groves would propel him back into the frame for a world title shot.

But Groves, 23, is confident he will keep his titles and his unbeaten record despite many believing that Smith’s aggressive style could pose a threat.

Groves said: “I see Paul has got himself into great shape and I’m looking forward to a good test, but I will keep hold of my belts.”