By Rick Reeno

WBC super middleweight champion Anthony Dirrell (27-0-1, 22KOs) has been allowed to make a voluntary defense before facing his mandatory challenger, George Groves (21-2, 16KOs), next year. The World Boxing Council has already approved a request from Dirrell's camp to make a voluntary on a date in February.

Dirrell captured the world title in August with a twelve round unanimous decision win over Sakio Bika in a rematch. Groves won the WBC's silver world title in September with a twelve round decision win over Christopher Rebrasse. He came back in November and stopped Denis Douglins in seven rounds.

After Dirrell makes his defense in February, the WBC will order his camp (provided he wins) to begin negotiations with Sauerland Event, who promote Groves. If the two sides are unable to reach an agreement, then a purse bid will be ordered.