Andre Ward Rate Artur Beterbiev Recent Performances: “You’ll See More Guys Trying To Go Against Him Right Now”

By: Hans Themistode

Andre Ward has always respected Artur Betterbiev. The newly introduced Hall of Famer marveled at the strength and durability of the Russian punch. He is also recognized as the unified light heavyweight title for his under-the-radar boxing abilities.

But while Ward believes Beterbiev is arguably the best in his weight class, he’s also noticed a few alarming trends. At various points in Beterbiev’s career, he was plagued by inactivity. In 2017 and 2018, the Russian star stepped into the ring only once. In 2020, he didn’t play at all.

This year, Betterbiev has made two successful appearances in the ring. However, despite the increase in activity, Ward believes his most recent trip to the squared circle has highlighted what could be a steady decline in Beterbiev.

Last weekend, in front of a packed crowd at the Bell Center in Montreal, Betterbiev faced off against highly ranked candidate Marcus Browne. Early on, the 31-year-old enjoyed mountains of success, boxing outside and counter-attacking when needed. However, Beterbiev would eventually find his rhythm again and resume his descent and then intercept Browne on the ninth round.

Although Ward was unable to pinpoint the fusion star’s problem, he believes his skills may be impaired.

Ward said on his social media account as he watched Beterbiev closely. “I don’t know if it’s his age or the sacking but Beterbiev saw so many shots that he couldn’t get away tonight.”

Beterbiev, 36, has experienced his own general difficulties in getting big names into the ring. However, he expressed interest in going up against light heavyweight champions Joe Smith Jr. and Dmitry Bivol. In addition to those names, Beterbiev has his eye on newly crowned undisputed super-middleweight champion Canelo Alvarez.

In Ward’s view, Betterbiev is still an excellent fighter. However, his days of struggling to find top-level opposition are now officially over.

“You’ll see more boys trying to fight him now.”