The boxing world is abuzz with speculation and what-ifs, and this time, it’s about a potential matchup that never came to be. Imagine a clash between two renowned fighters: Andre Ward, the undefeated 168-pound legend, and Tony Bellew, the former WBC cruiserweight champion. But here’s the twist: Bellew believes he would have had the upper hand!
A Respectful Rivalry:
There was a unique connection between these fighters, as they starred together in the movie ‘Creed’, fostering a mutual respect. Bellew, the Liverpool native, admits he would have relished the chance to face Ward in the ring, believing his size advantage would have been a decisive factor at cruiserweight.
Controversial Confidence:
When asked about his chances, Bellew confidently stated, “I believe I would have won… I’m too big.” He acknowledged Ward’s greatness but stood firm in his belief. However, he also admitted that Ward’s lack of punching power wouldn’t trouble him, and his style would pose significant challenges for Ward.
The Weighty Debate:
Bellew emphasized the importance of weight divisions, suggesting that Ward, despite his skill, would struggle against Bellew’s size at cruiserweight. This raises an intriguing question: Do weight divisions truly level the playing field, or can skill overcome physical advantages?
The Joshua Connection:
Interestingly, Ward had considered using Bellew as a stepping stone to reach Anthony Joshua, the heavyweight champion. But Bellew’s comments suggest that he might have been a more formidable opponent than Ward anticipated.
And this is where it gets even more intriguing: What if Ward’s plans for Joshua were influenced by his potential struggle against Bellew? Could Bellew’s size and style have been the kryptonite to Ward’s undefeated record?
As we delve into the realm of speculation, let the debate ignite! Would Ward have indeed struggled against Bellew, or is Bellew’s confidence misplaced? Share your thoughts and let’s explore the fascinating world of boxing hypotheticals!