Carl Froch vs. George Groves Ref Howard Foster Reportedly Receives Death Threat

Howard Foster—the referee who controversially stopped Carl Froch's world super middleweight title bout with George Groves—has received death threats in the aftermath of the fight, according to reports.

Foster's family has also been on the receiving end of abuse, according to Lucy Thornton of the Mirror:

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There are fears Howard Foster may now quit his ref duties for upcoming fights as a result of the backlash.

It is believed Foster and his family have been subjected to constant abuse since he sensationally stepped in during a high profile World Title bout between Carl Froch and George Groves.

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Foster's decision to step in during the ninth round has caused huge debate across the boxing world. The 51-year-old made a quick decision to end the contest in Froch's favor, although many believed that Groves was leading on points, especially after he knocked Froch down early.

Although the referee appeared to save Groves any serious damage in a moment of Froch dominance, it is arguable to suggest he made a premature decision.

Foster left the ring hidden under a jacket and was met with a chorus of boos as he exited the arena.

Groves has since launched allegations of corruption toward the British Boxing Board of Control, as reported by Jeff Powell of the Daily Mail. He also criticised Foster and called for a rematch on Twitter:

Thornton's report suggests Foster has been barred from discussing the fight in public, while an unnamed friend spoke about abuse received across the past week:

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Howard and his family have been receiving many threats.

He can take criticism and often he has to, but when him and his family are threatened outside their homes it has reached another level.

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Robert Smith, chief for the BBBoC, has avidly defended Foster across the past few days. He originally stated he agreed with the decision "all the way" and confirmed the official was "happy" with his call, per BBC Sport.

He backs the under-fire referee once again in Thornton's report, highlighting the possibility of permanent damage to Groves if Foster hadn't called time: "Howard Foster is a world-class professional. Another punch could have made a massive difference to George’s career."

Although South Yorkshire police are yet to report any official claims of abuse, you only have to listen to the reaction of the crowd and scroll through the constant stream of insults aimed Foster's way on Twitter to understand the situation could potentially be dangerous.

While it is debatable as to whether or not he should have stopped the fight, any death threats aimed the professional's way are indisputably unfair.