Weaknesses for Each Man
Andre Ward
Photo by Stephanie Trapp via Instagram
Andre Ward has all the tools he needs to win this fight and has shown in the past that he can use them. His biggest obstacle this time around is coming back to the ring after such a long hiatus. Paul Smith just fought earlier this year, while Ward’s last bout was in 2013. Smith is depending on Ward’s ring rust to pull an upset, though Ward is far too experienced to let this happen.
If you follow Ward on Instagram, you are well aware that despite the legal drama preventing him from fighting, Ward has kept himself right for the past several months. He didn’t let himself go and turn to a life of partying, smoking, and drinking. Instead, Ward frequently posted videos and pictures of him working out, training in the gym, and sparring as if he was getting ready for a championship fight. This is the kind of work ethic that only a truly dedicated fighter would exhibit.
Paul Smith
Photo by Martin Rose
From a technique standpoint, Paul Smith makes simple mistakes that will not help him in the ring. He drops his hands entirely too much when stepping in close range and when he throws punches. He also lacks effective head movement, making him so damn easy to hit. Smith can’t afford to make defensive mistakes like these with Andre Ward, who has great timing and accuracy.
One of Smith’s greatest obstacles is competing against Ward’s boxing IQ. Smith has not proven himself to be a particularly smart boxer or as having much versatility. He tends to do the same thing over and over without making any adjustments.
For example, Smith could do a lot more with his jab (in terms of following it up), but he chooses to throw the same combinations, such as the jab cross and double-jab cross. Every once and a while he will attempt the body when the opportunity presents itself. Majority of the time though, he headhunts, which is a super easy pattern for Ward to break down.
