We have a lot of good stuff for you here on the upcoming Andre Ward vs. Chad Dawson fight. First, we have video interviews with Andre Ward and Chad Dawson, as they answer some questions about the bout and their training camps. We also have a video sneak preview of the 24/7 Ward vs. Dawson series, which debuts on Saturday, August 25, and a collection of photos from the training camps of each man. Take a look.
Ward & Dawson Training Camp Photos
The photos were taken by the HBO Boxing 24/7 crew as they were filming in camp. So it’s the fighters preparing for the fight, but also a bit of them going about the rest of their business and hanging out in camp.
As mentioned, the first video we have is an Andre Ward video interview. He’s sitting ringside after a workout and shares his thoughts on facing Dawson and getting ready for the fight. The second video is Chad Dawson from his media day, and he talks about the fight as well.
What’s it like to fight back in Oakland?
“It’s always great to be home. A lot of people think it’s a given when you fight at home, like it’s an easy thing, but it’s not. There’s a lot of pressure, but good pressure when you fight at home to defend the house. I consider Oracle Arena my house and the Bay Area as a whole my house. I’m doing what I always do and I’m preparing well and I want to put on a great show for the fans.
What motivates you as a champion?
“What motivates me is first and foremost, my understanding that God gave me a something. When God gives you a gift and a talent you can be whatever. I’m a natural competitor that loves to compete and I’m striving for greatness. I don’t believe I’m there yet and I got a lot of work to do. God willing I have a few more years left in the game but I want to be great. And if one day I could be considered great, and have a hall of fame career, I want to look back and say it’s a job well done.”
What are your thoughts on fighting Chad Dawson?
“It’s a tough fight for both men. Not just me dealing with Chad Dawson, but Chad Dawson dealing with me and vice versa. That’s the beauty of the fight and it sells itself because you got two young guys who are well decorated in terms of our accomplishments, and we’re literally putting it all on the line at the peak of our careers. I don’t think anyone can ask for anything more than that.”
Can you tell us how you’re feeling physically, spiritually and mentally with just a few weeks away?
“I’m in great spirits. The weight is coming off, as you can see I’m real slim (smiling). Mentally, physically everything is on point. I’m excited to be in a big fight like this. I’m excited that the fight is approaching fast. Everything is just great right now”
You’ve been in big fights before, is this fight with Andre Ward at the top?
“I would say this is at the top because the magnitude of the fight. You got two young guys, both champions in our divisions. The only difference is I’m going down to his division and challenging him for his title. I look at it like a big challenge for me due to the fact that I have to lose an extra seven pounds to get down to 168. So it’s a challenge for me and it’s a challenge I’m looking forward to. The weight is good and I left the gym yesterday weighing in at 176 pounds. I feel great.”
Andre has been getting a lot of notoriety as being a pound for pound fighter, so how do you feel about fighting a guy like that?
“He’s still just another fighter. I understand the fact that he won a gold medal and he has a great amateur background, but this is the pros. He’s never been in there with a fighter like me. I don’t care what the media says or what people say, he’s never been in the ring with a fighter like me. On September 8th he’s going to see something different in there, something he’s never seen before.”
Next up, you’ll also find this preview to the 24/7 Road to Ward vs. Dawson series. The first episode debuts this Saturday, August 25, and we’ll get a glimpse into the training camp and lives of both men as they head into their big showdown. Here’s the preview clip:
So enjoy both of these videos, and all of the training camp photos, and keep on checking back for more news on Ward vs. Dawson. It should be a great contest between two of the best fighters in and around their divisions, and a rare high profile clash with such talented guys in their prime.
