Holzken replaces Braehmer as Smith’s Ali Trophy opponent

Holzken replaces Braehmer as Smith’s Ali Trophy opponent

Undefeated Dutch super middleweight Nieky Holzken replaces Juergen Braehmer as Callum Smith’s Ali Trophy opponent after the German veteran was forced to withdraw from Saturday’s semi-final showdown in Nuremberg.

Braehmer has been suffering from influenza and yesterday revealed he would be unable to compete against Smith at the Arena Nürnberger Versicherung.

Brähmer vs Callum Smith in Nürnberg on February 24

Brähmer vs Callum Smith in Nürnberg on February 24

Smith: I am expecting a tough night in Nuremberg

Callum Smith (23-0, 17 KOs) is expecting the best version of Juergen Braehmer (49-3, 35 KOs) before their Ali Trophy semi-final clash in the super middleweight edition of the World Boxing Super Series February 24 at the Arena Nürnberger Versicherung.

Groves beats Eubank Jr. predicts Callum Smith

Groves beats Eubank Jr. predicts Callum Smith

Callum Smith’s prediction: Groves on points after a few rocky moments

Callum Smith believes he will face George Groves in the final for the Muhammad Ali Trophy.

“Groves-Eubank is a good fight, a very good one. The winner will become an even bigger name after the weekend,” said Smith.

Groves and Eubank Jr. quotes for Saturday

Groves and Eubank Jr. quotes for Saturday

WBA Super Champion George Groves (27-3, 20 KOs) and IBO World Champion Chris Eubank Jr. (26-1, 20 KOs) exchanged words for at last time before their Ali Trophy semi-final clash on Saturday at the Manchester Arena.

“I have been involved in big fights before and I’ve learned a lot along the way,” said Groves. “This is a tremendous fight but it’s not my biggest fight to date. But I am in the form of my life, certainly I’m in the best shape I’ve ever been in through my career. I’m fully prepared to go out there and retain my world title in style.”