Sergey Kovalev vs Andre Ward: 5 biggest takeaways

Kovalev-Ward delivered in a way boxing rarely does anymore

Kovalev-Andre Ward wasn’t an instant classic. It didn’t feature flowing, simultaneous exchanges or the kind of raw, video game action that so many fans crave. And yet, Kovalev-Ward was fascinating and almost unbearably tense from the opening bell, fully living up to expectations as the predicted chess match between two of the sport’s best pound-for-pound fighters.

Slugging similar to any Arturo Gatti-Micky Ward fight was never in the cards, but that’s not what fans wanted from Kovalev-Ward. Instead, this was a fight to answer pressing questions: Could Ward replicate his circa 2012 form? Could Ward, the master boxer, disarm Kovalev, the unstoppable destroyer? Would Kovalev’s impressive boxing skills effectively translate against the most sophisticated opponent of his career? Could Ward overcome the adversity that would inevitably follow after Kovalev hit him flush?

Boxing fans were given answers to all these questions. Indeed, Ward showed he is still elite, even though he is nearing the end of his athletic prime. After struggling early, Ward did manage to disarm Kovalev’s vaunted right hand and fight back with aplomb; on the other hand. Kovalev, even though he struggled for significant stretches after a torrid start, showed his boxing skills more than stand up to Ward’s. And finally, Ward somehow dug deep to rise from that second round knockdown, turning what looked like a shocking Kovalev coronation into a fascinating struggle.

Kovalev-Ward also produced that extra bit of drama that will ensure it enters the annals of boxing’s storied history. The controversial decision and the tactics employed by both men will be scrutinized and debated for years — even if a rematch produces a more decisive result. Kovalev and Ward are not crossover stars, but for now they’ve managed — through their skills and the broader narrative of their fight — to elevate the sport.

Next: Andre Ward beats Sergey Kovalev by controversial decision

Make no mistake, the result of Kovalev-Ward should be argued. However, in no way should what transpired last night be viewed as another one of the many black eyes boxing gives itself. Kovalev-Ward was the sweet science at its best, and the decision and tactical nuances of the first fight make a rematch even more tantalizing. But here’s the pressing question: Who do you think won Kovalev-Ward? Let us know in the comments.