Sergey Kovalev walks outs of Andre Ward press conference (Video)
By José Youngs
Sergey Kovalev walked out on the press conference with Andre Ward.
Tension was at an all-time high during the final press conference leading up to the rematch between Andre Ward and Sergey Kovalev.
With both fighters, and their respective camps, speaking with the media before they locked horns at the Mandalay Bay this Saturday, the mood quickly took to a sharp turn once Kovalev took to the mic.
“What do you want to hear from me,” Kovalev asked the media before turning to Ward. “I’ve already said enough and I will prove it June 1 7 in the ring. And you [Ward], get prepared.”
From here Kovalev would turn and walk off the stage as Ward said “don’t point your finger at me.”
This incident is just the latest, and possibly final chapter, in the saga that is Ward vs. Kovalev.
The two pugilists initially fought for the unified WBA, IBF, and WBO light heavyweight titles last November in what was one of the most highly anticipated fights in recent boxing memory. Entering the contest, both Ward and Kovalev were ranked inside the Top 5 pound-for-pound boxers in the world and brought a combined record of 60-0 into the ring.
During the bout, Kovalev jumped out to an early lead on the judges scorecards as he battered his opponent mercilessly in the opening rounds, even scoring a vicious second round knockdown. But to both fans and pundits’ surprise, Ward stormed back and picked up the narrow decision win, with all three judges scoring the fight in his favor 114-113.
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Almost immediately, the rematch was called for as many felt Kovalev did enough to earn the win. Ward, recognizing the need to put the debate to rest, accepted the fight, which was now being build as ‘No Excuses.’
“I’m going to keep it short and sweet,” said Ward. “You got what you asked for – now you have to see me on June 17. This time…leave the excuses at home.”