California’s WBA (super) 168 lb champion Andre Ward, who comprehensively outclassed Carl Froch in December 2011 as part of ‘The Super Six’ final, has spoken out to wish his old foe all the best in his retirement, telling Sky Sports that “The Cobra” has left the game at the right time.
The classy American, who demolished Britain’s Paul Smith last month, had some respectful words for his old rival – wishing him all the best for the future;
“You have to respect the way he went about it, and the fact he not only stepped up but beat just about all the guys he fought at the top level” said Ward.
“He was competitive in every fight and brought his best every time out, so I have nothing personal against Froch. I actually like him a lot because he reminds me a lot of myself with his competitiveness.”
“He did it the right way – it’s a victory to go out on your own terms, with money and faculties intact. At the end of the day that’s what it’s all about.”
Sadly, Froch and his notorious ego displayed no such class in return, telling “The Nottingham Post” that he felt Ward wanted no part of him and ostensibly ducked out of a rematch by saying he wanted it at Wembley and not in Froch’s Nottingham back-yard – The very same back-yard, incidentally, where Ward’s countryman Andre Dirrell was on the wrong end of a home-town decision in 2009.
Ward remained the only career defeat that Froch was unable, or unwilling, to avenge;
“I offered him to fight again in Nottingham but he didn’t want it.” insisted Froch. “He wanted Wembley but he’s just not a big enough name.”
“I think he knew that fighting in my city brings something extra out of me like it did with Bute.”
“He knew he would be stepping into the Lion’s Den.”
“With my fans behind me, making the kind of noise they did for Bute, he would not be able to live with me. No chance.”
Make of that what you will, ladies and gentlemen.
Twitter @Undilutedpoison
