Ward vs Kovalev - Who've you got?

First topic message reminder :

I can’t let a fight as big as this weekend pass without a thread asking for folks thoughts. For me this is one of those odd fights that I am looking forward to enormously but suspect might well fail to ignite. I suspect intriguing rather than exciting may accurately describe it. Got to say since this has been announced I have been picking Ward. I rate both of them highly but just think Ward is a special talent, a lot more rounded and like Mayweather one with an exceptional ability to shut opponents down and neutralise them.
 
That being said Kovalev is no underdog or no hoper, this is a genuinely close fight, and one in which you can make an argument either way. Whilst people rightly wax lyrical about Kovalev’s power his boxing ability should not be underplayed, few since Jones have solved the numerous riddles Hopkins poses so effectively. Also he is a natural big hitting light heavy, something Ward has never faced, whilst his defence has always looked solid at super middle he is not completely unhittable. Froch had his moments where he was able to land, so one would assume Sergey will be able to do likewise. How Ward stands up to that is one of the big questions in this one.
 
Also whilst Ward is hardly an old man his career post Super six has had more stops and starts than me attempting to run a marathon. Being in the ring with Kovalev would not be a place I would want to be blowing off a dose of ring rust. Despite that, I still think Ward will be victorious, he is smart at tying up/holding on the inside and fast enough that he will score with plenty when the fight is at range. If the ref is pretty easy going when it comes to his holding inside, and thus far he has tended to get away with it, I think he will secure the win on points.
 
All of this almost certainly guarantees you can put your house on Kovalev, but irrespective of the outcome I cannot wait for this fight. A genuine talent moving up to take on the best the division above him has to offer, this is the sort of fight the sport needs more of.

I think Ward is going to surprise us. He will be rugged, but I think he will show flashes of brilliance. Watch the uppercut from the clinch. I can see Ward using this shot as well as working the body in close.

If he goes into survival mode though how does he do enough to win on points?

AdamT wrote:I think Ward is going to surprise us. He will be rugged, but I think he will show flashes of brilliance. Watch the uppercut from the clinch. I can see Ward using this shot as well as working the body in close.

I think Sergy will be doing the damage from the clinches that's where I disagree the first boxer Ward will have faced he can't maul inside Sergy's really a small cruiser

As I say, wait and see.

I'd be amazed if Ward got the better of Sergy on the inside but no one has yet to get the better of Ward either on the inside..

I think he will do it. I have a lot of faith in Wards abilities. Kovalev is no mug, but he is beatable.

Great fight no wonder so close in the betting

'It's not very often that a fight in Las Vegas that's this significant is this close in terms of odds' said Jay Rood, Vice President of Race & Sports for MGM Resorts International

It is a genuine 50/50 fight for many. I think Ward is better, but it wouldn't be the surprise of the Century if Sergey can pull it off.

I just hope this fight does good business and many watch it. It would be good for the sport if this fight has some drama.

It won't do the numbers that a fight of this quality deserves but I'm hoping it does well

Ward favourite but only by a nose he was -150 last month:

https://sports.paddypower.mobi/#sport/15/Popular

Even 200k would be ok. It can reach a wide audience in Europe.

The numbers of boxing have fell way behind UFC. I guess the UFC don't pay a lot of their champions that much, so they can get away with stacking their cards with title fights.

Ward hasn't been in many exciting fights. It may be a good for boxing thing that it doesn't reach a wider audience!

Echoing what others have said, I just can't back against Ward with his class and pedigree. Kovalev is an absolute train, and he can box too, but I think he could be smothered here. I think a lot of this fight will be decided by S&C, as I expect a lot of work up close at a decent tempo with plenty of wrestling, mostly instigated by Ward.

The best thing, for the fans anyway, would be for Kovalev to knock Ward down early. It'll mean that he won't be able to spoil and will have to open up a little more.

I know this is pathetic of me I actually think this could be a draw. Its so hard to call and both have strengths the other hasn’t. Ward is a very good boxer and very awkward. I think he will make it tough for Kov to land clean and even if he does it may be hard to follow up with other shots. Bearing that in mind I can see Ward out boxing Kov but Ward may suffer a knockdown or two without Kov being able to capitalise

If backed in to a corner though I am going with my first instinct and that is Kov mid to late KO. He’s the natural at the weight, been there longer and has undeniable power which will be the difference if one of them is to win. But I think a draw is on the cards.

I want Kovalev to win, but I think Ward will put on a clinic, like he usually does.

Think there may well be some hairy moments but that, by and large, Kovalev's constant pressure will be met with sublime defence, movement and counter-punches. And maybe a few headbutts.

Bloody hell, you know it's a big fight when Qoxiivi surfaces. It gets much bigger we'll have the captains thoughts before long.

Good to see you back pal.

This is a toughie. But I'll stick with Kovalev. He's a good boxer himself, maybe not in Ward's class, but he's still good and he has power.

Kovalev by late stoppage.

This fight won't be boring during the fight, it might be if you watched a replay

You always have that feeling it can end at any moment with one shot, especially with Kovalev in there

I didn't find Fury vs Wlad boring at all, because I knew if one of them landed a bomb it could be curtains (More Wlad than Fury)

If we're talking about a Rigondeaux that might be the case but when it comes to Ward if he's cruise control I couldn't envisage one shot ending it, there's certain boxers who when winning look unbeatable.

Anyone know roughly what time this fight will be live on Sky?

Tbf I view this fight a lot like Rigondeux vs Donaire, although I expect it to be better


Kovalrv like Donaire is a sound boxer but his real game is their power, but Rigondeux and ward are just that class above I feel

If Kovalrv lands cleanly which he should it'll be interesting to see how Ward takes it but I feel Ward is just a little too smart FOR Kovalrv

Toght UD in the range of 115-113 to Ward but generally deserved

I'm thinking it will be 116-112 or there about. Maybe 117-111!

EX7EY wrote:Anyone know roughly what time this fight will be live on Sky?

It's vegas, so probably about 4am ish

Can't wait for this. Won't be a classic, but it will still be exciting to see two top guys fighting.

Just hope Ward gets some respect after he wins. No doubt many will be on here with their backhand compliments like, 'Ward is good, but dirty and dull.'

AdamT wrote:Can't wait for this. Won't be a classic, but it will still be exciting to see two top guys fighting.

Just hope Ward gets some respect after he wins. No doubt many will be on here with their backhand compliments like, 'Ward is good, but dirty and dull.'

Only if he's good, dirty and dull.

People would like nothing better than for him to be good and exciting, I'm sure.

I see he's drafted in Mackie Shilstone - conditioner who helped make Jones into a heavyweight. Expecting to see him looking positively anabolic on the scales!

Baby faced assassin wrote:Tbf I view this fight a lot like Rigondeux vs Donaire, although I expect it to be better


Kovalrv like Donaire is a sound boxer but his real game is their power, but Rigondeux and ward are just that class above I feel

If Kovalrv lands cleanly which he should it'll be interesting to see how Ward takes it but I feel Ward is just a little too smart FOR Kovalrv

Toght UD in the range of 115-113 to Ward but generally deserved

Donaire was never the same boxer after becoming a Dad (either that or entering VADA 365 day testing). Kovalev here is in the form of his life.

hazharrison wrote:

AdamT wrote:Can't wait for this. Won't be a classic, but it will still be exciting to see two top guys fighting.

Just hope Ward gets some respect after he wins. No doubt many will be on here with their backhand compliments like, 'Ward is good, but dirty and dull.'

Only if he's good, dirty and dull.

People would like nothing better than for him to be good and exciting, I'm sure.

I see he's drafted in Mackie Shilstone - conditioner who helped make Jones into a heavyweight. Expecting to see him looking positively anabolic on the scales!

Least the guy fights and beats real fighters.

hazharrison wrote:

AdamT wrote:Can't wait for this. Won't be a classic, but it will still be exciting to see two top guys fighting.

Just hope Ward gets some respect after he wins. No doubt many will be on here with their backhand compliments like, 'Ward is good, but dirty and dull.'

Only if he's good, dirty and dull.

People would like nothing better than for him to be good and exciting, I'm sure.

I see he's drafted in Mackie Shilstone - conditioner who helped make Jones into a heavyweight. Expecting to see him looking positively anabolic on the scales!

You seem obsessed with anabolics. I take it you're likely juiced up yourself and want to believe everyone is as shallow as you?

Random guess I know. Just a little weird why you accuse every boxer you don't like of being a druggie.

AdamT wrote:

hazharrison wrote:

AdamT wrote:Can't wait for this. Won't be a classic, but it will still be exciting to see two top guys fighting.

Just hope Ward gets some respect after he wins. No doubt many will be on here with their backhand compliments like, 'Ward is good, but dirty and dull.'

Only if he's good, dirty and dull.

People would like nothing better than for him to be good and exciting, I'm sure.

I see he's drafted in Mackie Shilstone - conditioner who helped make Jones into a heavyweight. Expecting to see him looking positively anabolic on the scales!

You seem obsessed with anabolics. I take it you're likely juiced up yourself and want to believe everyone is as shallow as you?

Random guess I know. Just a little weird why you accuse every boxer you don't like of being a druggie.

Ah, gad, you got me again. You're like 606v2 Columbo. The forum's own Derek Acorah.

Thankfully I got a retrospective TUE, which allows me to make a comment that suggests Ward will look big and bulky at today's weigh in.

You're full of dung mate.

To be honest Haz, I have no problem of accusations. Jut be consistent. You never accuse fighters you like. It's always the guys you have beef with.

Anyway I can't wait to see you talk balls after Ward puts on a clinic. Have a good day

I think this Ward will win this could be a similar fight to when he fought Froch

Kovalev batters the most overhyped tw@t in boxing.

Gonna be embarrassing for Ward fans.

Derbymanc wrote:I think it'll be better than expected but a Ward win viad UD. Think Kov will come out all guns blazing for the first 3, Ward will settle into a rhythm before Kov goes looking for the KO in the last few rounds as he'll know he's behind

Moving it on...

Not sure how good Kovalev is Derby.. .Cleverley being his best win..

If he is one dimensional..Ward wins...Maybe in a stinker...

Think Kovalev has a bit more to him though and with the added weight wins late..

Coxy I hope you're on after the fight lol

Personally i think Kovalev is vastly underrated in the technical department and that Ward is a touch overrated in this respect. Ward relies very heavily on speed for me and he is the fastest big man since RJJ. A lot of Kovalevs work is set up with movement and feints, tempting his opponent to fire back just at exactly the time Kov wants him too. Ward is primarily a straight in and out fighter, with hand speed dictating his fights. That said, his hand speed is terrific and it will probably be the telling factor here. Should be a great fight tho and id be surprised if it does stagnate as i cant see Kov running away with it and u get the feeling that he will have a go if well behind. Still Ward to nick it on points for me, but only just.

IJK......This thread is seeing some old timers...

Indeed we're honoured. It's almost as if some people would rather talk about a top class competitive fight than bicker about Floyd mayweather's historical standing...

Hard though such a thing is to believe

Sarcasm and not irony I hope..

I don't get irony..

I have it 60/40 in favour of Ward. Can only see Ward winning a decision. Kovalev is no slouch in skill but Ward undeniably more skilled.

I see Ward having 1-2 scary moments but winning a close but clear points win.

Ward has hardened with Paddy Power by the slimmest of margins from 5/6 overnight to 3/4, Sergy out to 5/4 from 11/10 overnight

http://www.boxingscene.com/video-john-david-jackson-breaks-down-kovalev-ward-clash--110891

Really looking forward to this fight, Hoping it delivers some exciting rounds!. If Kovalev gets at Ward early, unsettles and rattles him it could really open up the fight and make it very interesting. However I am leaning towards Ward for the win. Think he will use his superior accuracy, speed and ring smarts to frustrate Kovalev, make him miss and nick a points win.

I have kosnovsky to ko warne at the end of 4th

Guys coming from the sunny Caribbean here please tell me what channel to watch Ward v Kov NOT STREAMING channel

cheers

PS: sorry I have been gone for a while

ONETWOFOREVER wrote:Guys coming from the sunny Caribbean here please tell me what channel to watch Ward v Kov NOT STREAMING channel

cheers

PS: sorry I have been gone for a while

Good to have you back.
Where in the Caribbean did you go?

Currently in Trinidad and Tobago

missed you guys

do you know is Ward v Kovalev on SKY SPORTS

Yes, it's on Sky Sports.

http://www.skysports.com/watch/tv-guide/20-11-2016

I've been to Trinidad. Stayed in Port of Spain and St Margaret's Village near San Fernando.

CHEERS ATILA

Disgusting decision against Perez, keep trying to keep a interest in this bent sport but why f£&@ing bother. The promoters have the winner before it starts. Used to be a big fan of boxing, hard work to say I even like it these days. Hope the main event is worth it, I have my doubts

Yep. Embarrassing for the sport. Also, for me, Kovalev looks nervous.