For those hoping for a James DeGale vs Groves rematch in 2018 it has taken a tangible step forward in the right direction.

It’s hard to believe it’s being already over six years since the pair first fought one another in what was a pay per view event – even back then in the UK.

If they do get it on at some point in 2018, it will be over seven years since that night and both have gone on to achieve world honours and grow as fighters.

At the time of the first meeting their trash talk and intense hatred of one another was perhaps some of the most potent and venomous:

Not long ago Groves reached out on multiple occasions to DeGale for a rematch but due to financial split disagreements, DeGale did not entertain them.

Now that’s changed.

Speaking on the “Clare Balding Show” as reported by The Sun, DeGale confirmed that in the past he wanted Groves to accept a 60-40 split as he was not a world champion, but now that Groves is, DeGale told the show that he will now accept a 50-50 purse split with Groves.

Groves first must get through his next challenge in the World Boxing Super Series against Chris Eubank Jr in early 2018 and if he were successful, would then have the final to box in too.

But a DeGale vs Groves rematch for the back-end of 2018 looks very possible indeed now after DeGale for his part at least, has agreed the money.