Ward vs Froch in Super Six World Boxing Classic Final

The Showtime network’s Super Six World Boxing Classic will reach its conclusion on Saturday Night as Andre Ward and Carl Froch, who outlasted the group stage and elimination phases will fight for the championship of the super-middleweight tournament at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City. The tournament has had its critics, with a number of fighters withdrawing through injury, but there can be no argument that it has seen most of the top fighters in the division left with little alternative than to face each other.

Andre Ward vs. Carl Froch

While both men have hugely increased their exposure in reaching this stage, the winner should be in a strong position in negotiating future fights against the likes of Bute, Kessler and possibly Hopkins. According to the markets, this man is very likely to Ward, who is top priced at 3/10 (William Hill). Carl Froch is a standout 13/5 (Bwin). Although one has to wonder whether Showtime wouldn’t far rather see the underdog take this fight.

Saturday’s final was delayed from its original date in October after Ward (24-0, 13 KOs) sustained a cut to his eye during training. Ward, a member of the 2004 U.S. Olympic team and the last American boxer to win an Olympic gold medal, said the division and his career have benefitted from the Super Six event.

A native of England, Froch (28-1, 20 KOs) also has valued his experience in the tournament. “I’ve really gotten some great matchups since the tournament started,” Froch said. “I don’t think those fights would have happened if it wasn’t for the tournament. It’s been great for Andre, and it’s been great for myself.”

Boxing betting enthusiasts are likely to predict that Andre Ward will win by unanimous decision over Carl Froch in a hard fought battle. Froch will demand a rematch while Ward looks to Canada and Lucian Bute.