Former boxer Andre Ward challenged Anthony Joshua earlier today via social media platforms, suggesting a potential match between them at Wembley Stadium would reignite his competitive spirit and training regimen. Ward, now 41 years old, has been inactive in professional boxing since his victory against Sergey Kovalev at the 175-pound weight class in 2017.
Anthony Joshua’s Financial Incentive Commentary
Joshua’s reply to Ward’s public challenge conveyed a sense of sarcasm, with Anthony Joshua stating on social media, in a manner reminiscent of Canelo Alvarez, “Financial reward. Financial reward.” This was his response to Andre Ward’s expressed interest in a fight.
“Provided the financial aspects were appropriately addressed and all conditions were met, a contest between myself and Anthony Joshua at Wembley Stadium is something I would consider,” Andre Ward remarked on Instagram earlier in the day. “It presents a considerable risk to my established reputation. It’s the type of challenge that would motivate me to return to the gym and adopt the necessary mindset for intense competition.”
“I understand he is preparing for a match with Jake Paul. My focus is on a genuine contest with historical significance,” Ward clarified.
Joshua: A Target for Fighters Seeking Large Payouts?
Currently, Joshua appears to be viewed by many fighters as a means to secure a substantial financial gain. Initially, it was Jake Paul, and now Ward has expressed interest. Should Joshua agree to Ward’s proposal, it would likely lead to other retired or veteran fighters attempting to persuade Joshua to grant them a fight despite potentially lacking justification.
At this juncture, a potential fight between Ward and Joshua would likely be motivated by financial incentives rather than the pursuit of “legacy.” It would primarily represent Andre’s attempt to secure a significant payday, surpassing the earnings he achieved during his active boxing career.
For Ward’s rematch against Sergey Kovalev on June 17, 2017, he purportedly received a guaranteed payment of $6.5 million. In their initial encounter, his earnings were $5 million. A fight against Joshua would offer the potential for significantly greater financial rewards if such an arrangement could be negotiated.
The Appeal of Substantial Financial Rewards
With figures like Turki Alalshikh becoming involved, providing substantial financial incentives to experienced fighters such as Terence Crawford and Canelo Alvarez, the financial rewards being offered are extremely high. However, the performances of these fighters have not always reflected these rewards. Both fighters delivered performances considered underwhelming in their most recent bouts.
Ward’s in-ring style during his professional career was often characterized as unexciting, frequently involving isolated power punches followed by clinching and holding. His two encounters with Sergey Kovalev, along with his fight against Carl Froch, were often criticized as being difficult to watch due to the frequency of grappling and holding. One can only speculate on the extent to which Ward would employ clinching tactics if he were to face Joshua in the ring.
