Carl Froch believes Joe Calzaghe could have handed Andre Ward the only defeat of his professional career, although he says the hypothetical fight would have needed to take place in Britain.
Froch experienced Ward’s awkward style firsthand in 2011, losing a unanimous decision in the Super Six final. Ward went on to become a two-weight world champion and retired unbeaten at (32-0) after victories over fighters including Chad Dawson, Mikkel Kessler and Sergey Kovalev.
Despite Ward’s accomplishments, Froch believes Calzaghe’s exceptional work rate could have caused him serious problems. The Welshman retired undefeated and holds the super middleweight record for 21 consecutive world-title defences.
“I’d absolutely love to have seen Andre Ward fight Calzaghe,” Froch said. “I think Calzaghe could beat Ward.”
Froch ultimately sided with Calzaghe because of his ability to maintain a relentless pace and overwhelm opponents with volume. However, he stressed that home advantage would have been crucial.
“Through gritted teeth, I’m going to pick Calzaghe, and that’s only because I actually think Calzaghe could beat Ward with his work rate,” Froch said. “But it would have to be in the UK.”
Froch also referenced referee Steve Smoger, who officiated Ward’s victories over both Froch and Dawson, suggesting Ward benefited from being allowed to work and tie opponents up on the inside.
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