Ward. Grittier, tougher, and a better boxer all-around. He does basically everything Plant does which gave Benavidez problems with a way better gas tank and overall tool-box.
It all depends on how Ward responds when he is stunned. I dont think there was a fighter out there during Wards reign that can put a nasty beating on him with blistering attacks like Benevidez. If Ward can keep Benevidez from gaining his mid fight overdrive style momentum then he has a chance for victory. I'm leaning on the fact that Ward has never had to deal with anything like this before. How durable is Ward actually? I don't think his octopus tactics will work on Benevidez. I'm going for Benevidez to win, with Ward coming unstuck after losing control during his tie ups. Benevidez has some fast Sugar Ray Leonard type of flurries and combinations and a real mean streak. Benevidez for me.
I think Ward has alot of excellent wins, but in all honesty, he lost to Kovalev in their first fight. This fight with Benevidez could have been a trilogy. They could have fought at either 168lbs or 175lbs.
Ward by SD. Benavidez is extremely busy that will cause major issues for Ward. But he will find a way to pull it out.
I'd go with David. Ward would not be able to bully him with his dirty tactics. If throws a low blow or elbow he's going one coming back to him. Ward fought mostly Euro-stiffs during his 168 reign.
Wards legs were better than Benavidez. Thats where the fight is won , on ring generalship , distance control and inside tactical craft.
Ward, if Plant managed to outbox David handily till he gassed then Ward would show an even more significant difference in levels and ring intellect
