Chris Eubank Junior lost his World Boxing Super Series semi-final tonight on a unanimous points decision to George Groves.

The Brighton fighter went the 12 rounds – and had Groves hurt in the last – but he needed a knockout by then as he lost his IBO world super-middleweight title to the reigning WBA holder.

The three judges scored it 117-112, 116-112 and 115-113.

Eubank was undoubtedly the villain in the eyes of the Manchester crowd.

Groves got a far bigger roar from the sell-out Manchester Arena.

Hammersmith’s Groves started well behind his jab and threatened to unleash his right hands.

Eubank Jr was respectful of his rival and struggled to get inside to work to Groves’ body or unload his favoured uppercuts.

Eubank Jr had some successive in the third but an early cut left blood streaming from above his right eye.

His plans to try to tire Groves out failed as the Londoner proved too accomplished, smothering Eubank Jr when he tried to unleash his uppercut.

The final round was a barnstormer with a weary Eubank throwing everything he has with Groves reeling but knowing enough to work his way out of trouble and take the win.