Saad fought in the golden era of the 70's and if Kovalev could knockdown Ward then so could Saad. In a 15 rd fight Saad starts off slowly falls behind and though badly cut he rallies and knocks down Ward late which is enough to earn a majority decision.
Ward has a much better chance than Kovalev. That guy might have a 10% chance. At least Ward might be able to stay away and shoeshine his way to a decision win.
Ward has moved up several divisions. Saad was a very strong natural LHW. I think he would come from behind and win on a late tko or decision. Ward is very skilled so he would land quite a bit. But Saad is stronger.
I watched most of Saads bouts live. Little defense but with KO punch in either fist and insurmountable will to win. Ward however had the defensive ability to win this by late stoppage......as long as he does not get caught.
Kovalev is a better boxer than Saad and is a fearsome puncher, Saad was far too easy to hit take those kind of punches.
Technically better but Matt was quicker with a fearsome jab. Sergei gasses and would be cannon fodder late for Matt
Kovalev`s jab is longer, better, stiffer and better timed. Ward worked out how to deal with it but Matt didn`t have that kind of savvy.
Originally MSM was a boxer-type....then he switched to be an action-type fighter to please the fans. Watch the 2 Marvin Johnson fights when MSM turned into the bad bass mode. MSM could always default back to his boxing skills if a pre-fight plan dictated it.