CERTAINLY on paper Jamie Cox is a significant underdog compared to WBA super-middleweight world champion George Groves when they meet on October 14 at Wembley Arena. But Cox speaks about the fight with such clear eyed determination that he seems to know something most observers don’t.

“It’s about being smart even if it is a war. It’s about being smart in the war, being smart in the storm,” he told Boxing News. “It’s going to be tough, it’s already tough. It’s very, very hard, very, very demanding. We’re ready. I’m ready to go through whatever I need to.”

He does know George Groves well, they were on the same international amateur team when Cox was at a much lighter weight. “Everyone has chinks in their armour, everyone has little chinks. That’s what we will address to capitalise on those weaknesses,” he said.

“We were both on England teams when we were kids. I have respect for him. I have respect for him as a fighter and I’m ready to do the job.”

The amateur squads Cox was on also featured other star names and future world champions like James DeGale, Tony Bellew and more. Jamie isn’t surprised to find himself fighting Groves, nor does he feel left behind compared to his former team-mates. “This is boxing. You can fight anyone it don’t matter. There was loads, DeGale, Bellew, they were all on there. Loads of big names. A great bunch of people to learn off and be around,” he said.

“Everyone’s got their own journey. This is mine.

George Groves vs Jamie Cox

“He’s world champion, it’s going to be a world championship fight in a big, big tournament for the Muhammad Ali trophy. I’m prepared for it to be as difficult as can be.”