“He Doesn’t Have the Style”: Former World Champion Andre Ward Names the Opponent Who Would’ve Been Tougher Than Anthony Joshua

Former Super Middleweight champion, Andre Ward speaks from his experience. Six and a half years into retirement, the Californian fighter remains content with his decision to hang his gloves. However, his affinity toward the sport keeps him in the loop of what is happening around him. Drawing on that experience, he outlines why Anthony Joshua would not have beaten him if they were to fight in the squared ring.

In a sitdown with Boxing News, the 32-0 fighter was asked his take on Anthony Joshua, the fighter who ruled 2023 after winning all the three fights he undertook and is now seeking a titular fight. How would he defeat the British fighter that seems unstoppable at the moment? Andre Ward had his answers. So what did he say?

Andre Ward wins over AJ and…

“He doesn’t have the style,” stated the undefeated fighter while making it apparent that AJ would not stand against him or Joe Calzaghe, another super middleweight legend who came before Ward. In 2004, Andre Ward entered the ring for the first time, marking his maiden victory and headlining as a fighter to look out for. With each victory he further jotted in his record, he was placed in the impressive shadows of Calzaghe, who had retired from the sport as Ward panned further.

Calzaghe left the ring with a stellar record, 46-unbeaten, showing the face of defeat to names like Bernard Hopkins and Chris Eubank. Ward acknowledged Calzaghe’s prowess, but he noted that it would not have been enough to defeat him. “He was a dog. I have nothing but respect for Calzaghe – he’s always done it the right way.” 

In comparison, who would be tougher to fight: Anthony Joshua or Joe Calzaghe? Ward answered, “Joe Calzaghe would have been a tougher fight. A different style, and a different mentality.” Why does he think that?

Ward Sees Through Anthony Joshua’s Style

“[Joshua’s] trying to box and be cute as well. I can look out for that right hand a lot easier when you fight like that,” remarked Ward who retired in 2017 after successfully defending his IBF, WBA, and WBO titles for the last time against Sergey Kovalev. Still, AJ is a noteworthy fighter. His stint in the ring backs the claim.

So, how does “Son of God” think he would defeat the British fighter, who once held the major titles in the heavyweight class? “The key thing would have been my movement and my inside fighting, believe it or not, and my goal would have been to wear him down. He has a rocket right hand that is very, very strong – if you stand in line for it. I don’t see a whole lot outside of that. His most natural punch is the right hand.”

Also Read: Boxing Update: Eddie Hearn Names Opponent He Wants Anthony Joshua To Fight After Francis Ngannou

Ward claimed that he’s always done better against fighters who were bigger than him. He suggested he’d have worn AJ round by round, slowly, and let the fight go to him. Do not chase the victory, let it come to you, advised Ward. An interesting tip to the fighters AJ is slated to fight this year.

Do you agree with Andre Ward’s arguments? Let us know in the comments section below.

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