The Fight: Overall, it was obvious Ward had the entire fight against his limited opponent. The ref was somewhat confusing at times (i.e. Patting both men on the head in the 4th round). There wasn't too much excitement, just watching Roger plod forward or leap into a clinch. Speaking of the clinching, that was annoying, and it wasn't just one fighter, it was both of them. Most of the time Cantrell would leap forward with his guard up into a clinch, almost like he didn't know what to do when he got inside. Or it was Ward, securing Cantrell's left arm while Ward tried to throw some lefts. Ward got to display his speed, but neglected a solid routine to dismantle his opponent. Cantrell had heart, but never once did he land an important punch to hurt Ward. Andre Ward Cons: This man needs to establish his jab, and keep it part of his routine. His speed is there, and if he would have kept a decent jab he could have kept Cantrell on the outside when Cantrell would charge in. Another thing for Ward should be working on a one-two jab-straight combo with some power on the straight. Also his footwork needs some work as well, Ward showed small glimpses of excellent footwork in the 4th round, moving to Cantrell's blindside, but neglecting to throw a solid punch. Lastly, Ward needs a solid plan to eliminate his opponents. What I would have advised is the following: start with a strong jab and work the straight into a combo. Since Cantrell was applying pressure poorly I would have told Ward to use his speed and time Cantrell charging in to land a strong lead straight which would have hurt him. When in close DON'T clinch, but keep the defense up and use lateral movement to create an opening and fire off a strong hook or combination. Pros: Andre showed in small bursts that he has the skill and speed to look good. There is potential in this guy. (I'd prefer if he is fighting limited opposition that he should get 5-7 fights in a year and work hard at establishing his fight plan.) Roger Cantrell Cons: Way too many to list. If Cantrell wants to be serious he should take some time off and train hard on the basics. Perhaps get a trainer with serious fight knowledge that can help him improve his skill. Pros: The kid's got heart.
Not yet. Ward has some real potential and will pass up Green eventually, but not as of right now. Ward was in with a limited but tough guy last night. He looked good at times and so-so at other times. He isn't ready for a Green or Miranda at the moment but he's ready to step up from the Cantrell's of the world. I think Ward will be a serious player at 168-75 somewhere down the line.
I don't think so. At the rate that Ward is going (in his career) it would be nearly a year till he should even speculate fighting Green. Unless Ward somehow becomes a fighter with a solid game plan, I wouldn't put him in with Green.
