What to ask from a Brit like you who thinks Joe Calzaghe is better than Bute and Ward? It will be all between Andre and Lucian.
I see Dirrell-Ward going the same as Judah-Mayweather. Dirrell comes out very defensive. Countering well with a noticeable hand speed advantage. Ward then just walks him down and punishes him. I think Dawson's size and jab would give Ward a lot of problems.
Ambush tactics may be useful. Not staying in one position for him to hunt and smother you, would be useful. This was one of the main reasons why I was so looking forward to the Dirrell fight. He's got the tools to give Ward problems more than anyone else.
On, watching the Bika fight may be handy. Ward didn't look too comfortable, from what I remember. I know not too many people can fight like Bika, but, if you can match Ward with some rough house tactics of your own, you can frustrate him.
I think the key to limit his ability to come inside is to be able to anticipate that first jab or lead right. Using feints or extremely effective head movement, one could get him to commit to the first shot which he uses to score and get inside to initiate those 'rough house tactics' as you put it. Catch him hard coming in or move out of the way in time, and he might rethink his approach... mind you, he's able to win a fight from outside exclusively as well. **** those who think he can't be beat. I give Bute a 20-30% chance of hurting The Man at 168 with counter power left hands, depending on how Larouche plans on having Bute lure Ward in. I think Bute will decision Froch comfortably going through a few bumps on the road, but I also think he stands a chance at giving Ward a very good run for his money. An uppercut to the chin like he did to Miranda would be the sweetest thing on earth... let Larouche work the magic, he did great stuff with limited Eric Lucas.. and Bute is a lot more talented and heavy handed than Lucas was. I believe. :smoke