JRE MMA Show #78 with Andre Ward

Episode Timestamps

• 00:00:00

  Andre Ward - A Undefeated Two Division World Champion

  • Andre Ward is a retired boxer who retired at 33 undefeated.
  • He aspired to be an Olympic gold medalist and a two division world champion.
  • Inspired by Roy Jones Jr., Ward wanted to leave at his peak to avoid the pitfalls many fighters face in their career.
• 00:01:34

  Roy Jones Jr. and Bernard Hopkins - Two Legends in Boxing

  • Roy Jones Jr. influenced Andre Ward with his 'get in and get out' approach to boxing.
  • Bernard Hopkins showcased incredible discipline and defensive tactics in his fights.
  • Hopkins' technical and disciplined style contrasted with Roy Jones Jr.'s athleticism and unique fighting style.
• 00:09:42

  Roy Jones Jr. and the Quest for Muscular Build

  • Discussion on Roy Jones Jr.'s physique and muscle build during his boxing career
  • Debate on the challenges of putting on muscle weight in the context of Jones' weight class
  • Jones' decision-making process around weight management and fighting strategy
• 00:13:06

  Andrew Galata's Controversial Fight and Abrupt Decisions

  • Description of Andrew Galata's behavior and controversial actions in the ring
  • Discussions on Galata's fighting style and tactics, including low blows and unconventional behavior
  • Analysis of Galata's decision to quit mid-fight and the aftermath of his boxing career
• 00:17:53

  Nate Diaz's Impact on MMA Recognition

  • Recognition of Nate Diaz's star power in the UFC
  • Comparison with Conor McGregor's popularity
  • Nate Diaz's past overshadowed by his brother's success
• 00:23:54

  The Masterful Training by Virgil Hunter

  • Virgil Hunter's focus on safety over championships
  • Importance of harmonious relationships between trainers and fighters
  • Maintaining composure and mental strength in the ring
• 00:27:31

  Focus on Mental Strength and Weaknesses in Boxing

  • Learning about the importance of mental strength in boxing through personal experiences.
  • Noting the significance of silence and observation in understanding opponents' weaknesses.
  • Analyzing the behavior of a fighter to gauge their mental state and weaknesses.
• 00:28:18

  Unveiling Psychological Weaknesses Through Opponent Analysis

  • Evaluating opponent behaviors and reactions to understand their psychological vulnerabilities.
  • Strategically using silence and observation to exploit the opponent's weaknesses.
  • Highlighting the importance of psychological tactics and mental fortitude in boxing battles.
• 00:36:31

  Facing Critics in the Ring - Dealing with the Weight of Expectations

  • Recounting the pressure of boxing where one loss significantly impacts pay scale and livelihood
  • Reflecting on the presence of critics ringside and the additional strain it brings
  • Discussing the motivation drawn from family and supporters, turning negativity into drive and determination
• 00:38:46

  Navigating Adversities and Burnout - Lessons Beyond the Ring

  • Discussing guidance from mentor Napoleon Kaufman on managing negativity and focusing on personal growth
  • Detailing a burnout phase post-career due to legal battles and disillusionment with the boxing industry
  • Exploring the shift in perspective post-retirement towards personal focus and rediscovery of passion through broadcasting
• 00:45:54

  Andre Ward's First Title Fight in Hometown Arena Against Kessler

  • Andre Ward recalls the moment as a 12-13 year old being told he would headline a fight at his hometown arena by Kessler.
  • Despite facing immense pressure, Ward defeated Kessler in November 19th fight, securing his first title.
  • Reflecting on predecessors like Pernell Whitaker and Mark Breeland who faced similar pressure after winning medals in the Olympics.
• 00:48:54

  Overcoming Pressure and Adversity in Boxing Journey

  • Discusses the pressure Ward experiences from early life challenges to national and world tournaments.
  • Shares the emotional journey leading up to fighting for a world title in his hometown arena.
  • Reflecting on dealing with critics, haters, and the importance of having a supportive team like coach Virgil.
• 00:55:29

  Facing Fear Against Kovalev and Overcoming Doubts

  • Discussion on facing fear when fighting Kovalev due to his past
  • Internal struggle and consideration of retirement after physical toll
  • Conversation with pastor leading to decision to continue and faith playing a role
• 01:01:36

  Andre Ward's Retirement and Personal Reflections

  • How Andre Ward made the decision to retire after a period of contemplation
  • Pivotal conversation with his wife leading to the final retirement decision
  • Impact and overwhelming response to retirement announcement
• 01:04:43

  Boxing Legends Discussion: Hagler, Camacho, and Lewis

  • Discussion on fights of legends like Donny Lalonde, Terry Norris, Hector Camacho
  • Comparison to past boxing greats like Hagler and Lennox Lewis
  • Reflects on the toll boxing takes on fighters' health and decision to keep fighting
• 01:05:34

  Impact of Boxing Choices on Health: Lessons from Mayweather

  • Importance of smart boxing and managing health in the ring
  • Comparison between defensive boxers and fighters who take damage
  • Emphasis on appreciating masterful boxing like Mayweather's defensive style
• 01:14:05

  Boxing Analysis: Floyd Mayweather vs Canelo Alvarez

  • Discussion on Floyd Mayweather being the bigger star in boxing despite the rising popularity of Canelo Alvarez.
  • Canelo Alvarez learning from his fight with Floyd Mayweather and improving his boxing style.
  • Appreciation for the technical aspects of the sport and the mastery displayed in the Mayweather vs Canelo fight.
• 01:17:08

  Fight Commentary and Appreciation in Boxing

  • Critique on how boxing commentary sometimes fails to engage casual fans and highlight the beauty of the sport.
  • Emphasis on the importance of celebrating fighters and their skills rather than being overly negative.
  • Discussion about credible and fair commentary in boxing, emphasizing objectivity and truthfulness.
• 01:23:48

  Remembering Jim and the Evolution of Broadcasting

  • Jim sets gold standard for play by play
  • Reflecting on Jim's teaching role
  • Discussion about missing colleagues like Kellerman and the evolving broadcast landscape
• 01:25:22

  The Fury-Wilder Epic Fight and the Changing Boxing World

  • Excitement around Tyson Fury and Deontay Wilder fight
  • Review of Fury's career-saving victory and charitable actions
  • Speculation on upcoming matches and the modern streaming era
• 01:32:28

  Roy Jones - The Superman of Boxing

  • Roy Jones, known for his unique style and swagger in the boxing world.
  • Victory over Pazienza where his opponent couldn't land a single punch in a round.
  • Challenges faced after significant weight loss affecting strength and performance.
• 01:33:15

  Tarver's Triumph - Taking Down Roy Jones

  • Tarver's relentless pursuit of facing Roy Jones post-Tarver vs. Jones knockout.
  • Significant role reversal where Tarver becomes the top dog in the boxing world.
  • Resilience and guts displayed by Tarver in his path to victory and respect.
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• 01:50:38

  Andre's Retirement Journey

  • Andre Ward talks about retiring from boxing and dealing with the urge of a comeback.
  • He discusses his exercise routine and his plan to possibly return to hitting the bag.
  • Mentions insights from Mike Tyson and Nazeem Richardson regarding retirement as an opponent.
• 01:52:16

  Retirement as an Opponent

  • Andre Ward shares how he views retirement as an opponent to conquer.
  • Reflects on the support and skepticism he receives about a potential comeback.
  • Expresses confidence in facing retirement just like he does against opponents in the ring.