Los Angeles, CA (June 14, 2008) – After seeing the birth of his daughter, Amira Lecian Ward, Andre declared himself to be on a mission. The undefeated 2004 Olympic Gold Medalist Andre “S.O.G.” Ward (15-0, 10 KOs) is set to take off for the Cayman Islands tomorrow where, on next Friday night, he will compete for his first title as a professional against former “Contender” competitor Jerson Ravelo (18-2, 12 KOs)..
“My wife Tiffiney is doing well and we are proud to tell you that are daughter is born weighing in at a fit 6lbs. 14ounces. She is so precious. I have never been so inspired to visit the Cayman Islands and win! I haven’t even left yet and I just can’t wait to come back and hold my baby girl! I wish I could take my family out there with me but it is too soon for them to travel,” an excited Ward said.
“I am extremely excited to go to the amazing Cayman Islands to try and win my first title as a pro,” said the Oakland, CA native, who will be seeking to capture the NABO Super Middleweight Title in the main event to be televised on Showtime.
“A win would be a major step toward my mission of becoming a world champion and to continue to establish myself as the eventual best fighter in the world.
“My training camp went exceptionally well, and I know I have to be ready because Jerson Ravelo is a world class fighter who has knocked out eight of his opponents in the first round. As always, my trainer, Virgil Hunter, has prepared me well and provided me with great sparring and a sound game plan which I will look to follow.”
Ward is no slouch either when it comes to finishing his opponents, as he is coming off a seventh-round stoppage of rugged veteran Rubin Williams back in March – his fifth consecutive knockout victory.
“I am coming in great shape and expect to emerge as the new NABO Super Middleweight Champion when all is said and done.”
Virgil Hunter, Ward’s trainer added, “The work has been done and Andre is ready to send a message to Ravelo and all the other world contenders next week.”