Ward, an undefeated super-middleweight ruler, is widely recognised as one of the best boxers in the world, whilst Kovalev has struggled to receive worldwide acknowledgement despite beating the likes of Bernard Hopkins, Nathan Cleverly and Jean Pascal (twice).
The 175 pound division hasn’t been loaded with talent over the past decade and Kovalev had been chasing a unification with Adonis Stevenson that never materialized due to network and contractual problems.
Finally, the Russian puncher gets the legacy fight he desires on November 19 at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas and hopes victory will see him pushed to the forefront of pound for pound lists throughout the sport.
Kovalev said, “I am very excited to finally get my chance to face Andre Ward on November 19. I want to face the best competition. I want to be the best Pound-for-Pound fighter in the world.
“Thank you to all of my fans and I hope everyone will come out and see this great fight on November 19 in Las Vegas,” he added.
At 33 years old, Kovalev needs that defining victory against a massive name, something which is long overdue despite his win over the aged Hopkins.
Topping Ward would assure ‘Krusher’ that the elusive box would firmly be ticked and could free him up for a future move to cruiserweight where another championship chance would potentially beckon.
