With the Super Six Tournament kicking off Oct. 17th, Inside Fights will be previewing each of the fighters involved. In this profile, we will feature “S.O.G.” Andre Ward. “Son of God” is an undefeated former gold medalist in the 2004 Olympic Games.
Born: San Francisco, California
Age: 25
Height: 6’1″
Reach: 71″
Record: 20-0 (13 KOs)
Strengths:Andre Ward is a versatile boxer with a high boxing I.Q. and an extensive amateur background. He possesses all the tools needed to become a world champion, and could be labeled the total package. He has fast hands, great handspeed,good footwork, and decent pop. He is extremely versatile on offense, and fights well coming forward or on the move.
Weaknesses: Very few. Ward’s chin has yet to be tested. Lack’s experience on the championship level as a pro.
Why he will win: Ward very well may be the most talented boxer of the bunch. Ward has been groomed for this moment since the amateurs. Ward has shown poise each and every time he has stepped up his competition level. This kid simply does not rattle. His pedigree coupled with his skillset makes him a bad matchup for just about everyone in the Super Six Tournament.
Why he will lose: How does Ward respond to being put in serious trouble? Can Ward recover from a knockdown? Does Ward have a glass chin? Can Ward come from behind in a fight to knock out or decision an opponent? These are all questions no one has the answer to……..yet.
Best Matchup: Carl Froch. If you thought Jermain Taylor was beating Froch before he ran outta gas, wait till you see what Ward will do to him. If ever a fight had shutout written all over it, this is the one. Simply put, Ward will outthink,outbox, and outspeed Froch all night. He will not gas, and will not go for a k.o. He will be content to win every round, and he most likely will.
Worst Matchup:Andre Dirrell. Dirrell can match many of the physical tools Ward possesses.He may actually be a bit faster than Ward. If Dirrell can catch Ward early on, he has the power and speed to put him away for good. Think Judah Vs. Mayweather. Judah was able to give Mayweather all sorts of problems for about four rounds or so. This potential matchup could play out the same way.
