Saturday, June 20, 2015, Andre Ward (28-0, 15 KOs) returned to the ring after 19 months to score a stoppage victory in Round 9 against Paul Smith (35-6, 20 KOs).
Ward effective with the jab throughout the entire fight as he kept it in the face of Smith, forcing him to continually move backward.
Ward was able to land many straight shots off his jab and Smith remained covered up for the first half of fight.
In later rounds, Smith was able to land a few straight shots on Ward, but Andre recovered quickly and went back to his jab. In Round 7 Smith was cut during exchanges and the cut continued to open up as the fight wore on. In Round 8, Ward landed a large uppercut causing Smith’s cut to open up more.
In Round 9, a bloody and shaken Smith continued to receive Ward’s punishment until the challenger’s corner threw in the towel. It was a TKO victory for Ward and the Oracle Arena immediately exploded for their hometown hero.
Ward discussed his performance after the fight, making mention of his long layoff and the use of his jab.
“It took some time to get the rust out. I started strong with the jab. I really wanted to come out with a big bang. I have a great coach and he told me take your time and the knockout will come. I could see his legs getting a little wobbly,” said Ward.
A thankful Ward also explained that Oakland is the home of three champions; himself, Marshawn Lynch of the Seattle Seahawks, and the newly crowned NBA champion Golden State Warriors.
