Carl Froch became a world champion for the third time when he hammered Lucian Bute in May 2012.

His first belt arrived in his ninth fight, as he defeated Alan Page via knockout to win the British title at 12 stone.

A series of impressive defences catapulted Froch into the No. 1 contendership for the WBC super-middleweight title in early 2007. He waited 18 months before he had an opportunity to fight for the WBC crown, eventually facing Jean Pascal in December 2008.

Froch overcame the hitherto undefeated Canadian on a unanimous points decision in his native Nottingham. His first defence, in America against Jermain Taylor, was one of the best fights of 2009. With Froch, who had been knocked down in the third round, trailing on two of the judges' cards seconds before the fight's final bell, the Brit floored his opponent to emerge victorious.

Froch agreed in July 2009 to take part in the Super Six Classic, a tournament between the leading figures in his division. His first contest - against Andre Dirrell - was a struggle, with Froch eventually emerging as the winner after a split points decision.

Froch surrendered both his WBC title and unbeaten record in April 2010 when he lost on points to Mikkel Kessler, having travelled to his opponent's native Denmark.

He regained the belt in his subsequent fight after using his technical nous to outpoint Arthur Abraham, before booking a place in the final of the Super Six by claiming a majority decision against Glen Johnson.

In the final, Andre Ward looked superior to Froch in every regard, ruthlessly capitalising on the Brit's often-criticised defence to claim a unanimous decision.

Froch bounced back in some style, ending Bute's unbeaten record to take the IBF title, and defended the belt in style against Yusaf Mack in Nottingham in November 2012.

Career high: Winning the WBC super-middleweight title - twice

Career low: Being punished by Ward on what was called the defining night of his career

Quotes: Enzo Calzaghe on Froch's chances of fighting his son Joe: "Carl Froch has more chance of fighting Robin Hood than Joe Calzaghe."

Jermain Taylor before his fight with Froch: "Who the Froch is Froch?"

Trivia: Froch is a season ticket holder at Nottingham Forest