George Groves
George Groves with his new promoter Eddie Hearn. [Lawrence Lustig]

George Groves is targeting a world title before the end of the year after it was confirmed that the unbeaten super middleweight star had signed a new promotional deal with Matchroom Boxing.

The 24-year-old had been scheduled to fight for the European title later this month but after leaving Frank Warren he has instead decided to target a possible world crown.

Groves will be in action this month when he faces Argentine Dario German Balmaceda at Wembley on Saturday but he is hoping that there will be bigger names delivered in the very near future.

It was confirmed that the Londoner would provide chief support on the 'Warrior's Call' bill on May 25 which features his fellow British super middleweight Carl Froch in an epic rematch against Mikkel Kessler.

Groves will then go on to headline his own show in September and it seems he is hoping for a possible shot at the winner of Arthur Abraham and Robert Steiglitz who meet for the WBO crown later this month.

"We'll see what Eddie can deliver and we'll put him to the test, don't worry about that," said Groves after being asked if he was targeting the winner of Abraham and Steiglitz.

"The fact that he is delivering big fights for his fighters right now is encouraging. Either way, I think we will have a prestigious title on the line. I'm fortunate I'm in a division with so many great fighters so hopefully a big fight can be made.

"It is massive worldwide exposure for me and a step in the right direction. I'm at that level now where I'm knocking on the door for world titles and working with Matchroom should help me get closer to that dream.

While Groves admits that he would love a crack at the WBO title he also admits that he will be paying close attention to the Froch vs Kessler fight as he would love to challenge the winner of that bout.

"I expect that will be a big fight as chief-support to the main event. I've had to give up my spot as the mandatory for the European title but hopefully that door isn't shut and it's still a possible route, but I'm well ranked in the governing bodies and I want to fight for a world title.

"I'm ranked number one with the WBO and Abraham vs. Stieglitz fight for that in a few weeks so I'll be keeping a keen eye on that and I'll have just as close an eye on the Froch vs. Kessler fight as I really believe I could get a crack at the winner and I think Eddie knows I want that fight so it ties in nicely."

With Groves now joining forced with Matchroom it means promoter Eddie Hearn has an impressive stable of British fighters who will all be looking to land world title opportunities before the end of the year.

Kell Brook is confident that he will land his title chance against Devon Alexander, while Darren Barker is hoping to prove his credentials when he faces Simone Rotolo on the same night Groves makes his debut with Matchroom.

With a host of exciting young talent also signed to Matchroom, Hearn admitted how pleased he was to gain the signature of Groves.

"I am delighted to welcome George to the Matchroom stable. He's a tremendous talent and a real star in the super middleweight division - not just in the future but today. His debut for us on Saturday is a great addition to an already top class bill, and he'll play a huge part in the Froch vs. Kessler night on May 25."