George Groves’ forgotten rival and Olympic gold medallist shows off hulking arms in rare public sighting
GEORGE GROVES has reunited with former foe James DeGale after a chance encounter in London.
The pair famously fought in 2011, with Groves outpointing his rival at the 02 Arena – taking his unbeaten record in the process.
Saint George later went on to twice fight Carl Froch, losing both times, with the hotly-anticipated rematch taking place at a packed Wembley Stadium.
Groves, now 36, became super-middlweight champion in 2017, holding the title for a year before going on to retire following his defeat to Callum Smith.
DeGale, meanwhile, shot to fame by winning gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008.
He went on to become a two-time IBF super-middleweight champion – retiring in 2019 after a defeat to Chris Eubank Jr.
After bumping into DeGale, Groves took a picture with his former foe.
Posting the snap of the grinning pair to Instagram, Saint George wrote: “Look who I bumped into today on the King’s Road.
“The debate still remains.. who had the better career? or shall we just debate it on the podcast?”
DeGale, 38, commented with the eyes emoji.
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The pair’s 2011 meeting took place amid significant bad blood.
Having previously trained at the same club, the pair fell out dramatically.
DeGale taunted his former pal at the time, telling Sky Sports: “I’m ready for it, I’m just waiting for the call from my promoter. I’m ready to knock Ugly Kid out.
“Fans want it, so it’s only right for him to get knocked out. Let’s get it on. I’m just waiting for the call. I just want them to sign the contract. Let’s do this Ugly Boy. I’m coming for you – you’re next.”
Since hanging up his gloves, Groves has gone on to start a podcast, entitled George Groves’ Boxing Club.
While he has also provided punditry for Sky Sports.
DeGale, meanwhile, is a far less frequent figure on boxing’s talking head circuit.
He seldom appears as a pundit, and rarely offers his opinions on today’s stars.
Seeing the pair having buried the hatchet, many fans were thrilled on social media.
One wrote: “Never in my life did I think you two would be in a picture like this. Fair play.”
While a second commented: “Beautiful.”
A third gushed: “Both done us proud.”
And another added: “What a rivalry.”