I guess the first option is closer to how it will probably go. Actually, with the more or less consensus top five (Mayweather, Pacquiao, Martinez, Hopkins and Marquez) all winding down and likely to retire for good in the next couple of years...there is a possibility that Donaire loses to someone in his talent-laden weight range and that might actually open up the door for Ward to become #1. :think Him or his mini-me, Timbo.
But where do you stand if you could choose? Ward winning or Ward loosing? That was the question. Personally I think he will loose against Froch on a neutral venue.
I'd like to see him do well, and keep winning. I don't really think he's as dirty as people make out (mostly agenda-driven British fans). The only thing about him that annoys me is the "SOG" stuff. I actually quite like him as a fighter, and aside from the religious pandering he seems like a good guy outside the ring too.
:thumbsup But I do think there are issues regarding his skills and the things he is allowed to do. Would def like to see him perform when he is not allowed to do the duck, and hold move.
Haven't really seen Ward in trouble much, we are gonna find out just how good he is when he fights Froch.
Like the other poster said,win the tournament,unify the belts, and go up to light heavyweight. It would be also interesting if Martinez goes up to supermiddleweight Ward vs Martinez..hmmmmm
He will be a top P4P fighter, I say top 3-5 in years to come, but may never break through to #1 P4P. He's a guy I see getting better with age similar to Hopkins. He will grow smarter and better with more experience and will perhaps always be a guy more appreciated by such fans who find beauty in the technical aspects of boxing.