Joe Calzaghe marvels at British boxing prospects
Now that he’s no longer competing in the ring, former boxing star Joe Calzaghe can appreciate others who are.
In a recent interview Calzaghe voiced deep admiration for upcoming British prospects Nathan Cleverly (20-0, 10 KOs) and George Groves (10-0, 8 KOs), saying that he thinks they stand a chance to rise to
the tops of their divisions. Calzaghe said he sees a lot of himself in light heavyweight Cleverly, in terms of training style and ability.
“I love Nathan to bits,” the undefeated retiree said to the
South Wales Argus. “A lot of things have been written about our relationship but he’s a lovely guy and he reminds me a lot of myself. He’s stayed in Blackwood, his dad’s his trainer, he’s grounded and he works so hard. His fitness and speed work
are similar to me—he doesn’t stop."
Part of the affinity no doubt comes from the fact that Calzaghe’s father trained the fellow Welshman early in his formative years. Calzaghe related the fact and said that while Cleverly is positioned
with his own team now, he is happy to have had a hand in his development.
“Champions breed champions and I’m proud of him. Obviously he’s training with his dad now and he’s the one who has to put in the hard work every day but I’m happy that we’ve had something to do with that."
In his last fight in September Cleverly overpowered challenger Karo Murat in a WBO light heavyweight eliminator match. Cleverly is thus first in line for a shot against Jurgen Brahmer, who holds the WBO
title. Due to a 16-month prison term Brahmer may not be able to appeal, however, he may be stripped of his title and Cleverly may be awarded it without much effort.
Calzaghe was also impressed with super middleweight prospect George Groves. Groves, promoted by Hayemaker Promotions, is expected to do big things in the future in his division.
Calzaghe said: “I watched George on the pads and he impressed me a lot. He's very sharp, quick and seems to have every shot in the book. He's only going to get better, too, as he's surrounded by other
good fighters in the gym and success breeds success.”
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