Chudinov-Sturm II in Talks: Groves or Andre Ward Next?

By Luke Furman

According to Russian promoter Vladimir Hryunov, talks are already taking place for WBA 'regular' super middleweight Fedor Chudinov (14-0, 10KOs) to defend his title in a rematch against Felix Sturm (39-5-3, 18KOs).

Chudinov won the title with a twelve round split decision over Sturm in May. For whatever reason the WBA ordered a rematch between the two of them.

Chudinov was in action on Saturday in the UK and systematically beat Frank Buglioni over twelve rounds. He had planned to fight Vincent Feigenbutz next until the WBA issued their order.

After Sturm, Hryunov plans to bring Chudinov back to the UK and says George Groves is a likely candidate to fight. He says the sanctioning body might also ordered a mandatory fight between Chudinov and Andre Ward, who holds the WBA's "super" title at 168-pounds.

"We have already started discussions with Sturm's team regarding a rematch, which is tentatively scheduled for December 5 in Germany. If successful, and we will defeat Sturm, then we will have another fight in England. Most likely, it will be against George Groves or maybe WBA will make a decision about a fight with Andre Ward," Hryunov said.

Luke Furman covers boxing for bokser.org.