Andre Ward vs. Sullivan Barrera
Milo Taibi, Staff Writer
Andre Ward is the pick here, despite a new weight class and spell of inactivity (which is nothing new for the 32-year-old).
It’s difficult to regard Sullivan Barrera as a true threat to Ward’s undefeated record; as recently as last year, Barrera labored and had difficulty putting away the shopworn Jeff Lacy.
Prediction: Ward
Sarah Gruber, Staff Writer
I think this is a huge test for Andre Ward and this will be a great fight. I expect Ward to stay smart and look to out box the powerful Sullivan Barrera.
Ward is a masterful technical boxer and I see him using that solid technique to beat Barrera by decision. My only concern is if Ward can withstand the upgrade in power as he enters the light heavy weight division.
All it takes is one really good shot, but I think too technically sound and calm to fall into the power of Barrera by mistake.
Prediction: Ward
Paul Johnson, Staff Writer
Prediction: Ward
Liam Brady, Staff Writer/Graphic Designer
Prediction: Ward
Brandon Glass, Staff Writer
The real question about this match-up; what can we expect from Ward? Ward has only fought twice since defeating former Light Heavyweight champion, Chad Dawson back in 2012.
It’s now 2016. The 34 year old Barrera, who is two years older than Ward, is already a muscular, fully-grown, light heavyweight with punching power and a solid jab.
Normally, the size differential would give Barrera an edge, if we hadn’t seen Ward dismantle Dawson. Abel Sanchez has helped Barrera blend a pressure fighting style with Barrera’s Cuban style pedigree.
Their plan is to bully Ward with constant pressure and aggression. The problem with that is: though many have tried, I’ve never seen Ward bullied effectively.
Barrera is no push-over for this step up in weight, however if I can count on one thing; it’s that Ward will be totally prepared. Ward’s superior skill sets, IQ, and edge in experience will guide him to a decision win over Barrera.
Prediction: Ward
Robert Contreras, Staff Writer
Prediction: Barrera
Ardy Ajoste, Graphic Designer
Prediction: Ward
Alex Burgos, Editor-in-Chief
For as much flack as Andre Ward gets for being boring and making bad decision outside of the ring, his body of work is outstanding and this is a legitimate first test in the Light heavyweight division.
Sullivan Barrera, while largely untested as a professional, is a powerful Light Heavyweight and should give Ward a good stern test as “SOG” looks ahead towards a mega clash with Sergey Kovalev.
I think Ward will take a little while to knock off the ring rust, but he’ll settle into a groove and measure the distance to cleanly bang and outpoint Barrera over 12 rounds.
Prediction: Ward
All photos by Tom Hogan-Hogan Photos/Roc Nation Sports
