Because HBO and Showtime won't air his fights for the amount of money he is asking. Roc Nation has bought up time on BET and Fox 1 to show his fights and that of the stable they are trying to build. He went to HBO and wanted 2 million to fight Perbian. He wanted 2 million to fight LHW OOst at SMW, he also wanted 2 million to fight Sartison, but I am happy he is fighting again. He needs to rebuild his brand and get big fights which I'm sure HBO will be glad to air.
I agree and while Perbian isn't the best opponent I was hoping for someone in the top 20 at least he is fighting. Perbian as I mention in the post has fought JLeon, Degale, Bika, and Bdou Jack. So while not a stellar opponent he is a good gauge for Ward to shake some rust off and see where he needs to be. I assume they are using him as a measuring stick.