LIVERPOOL’S Paul Smith could be in line to fight Andre Ward on June 20.
It’s a surprise opportunity for Smith who has completed back-to-back world title fights, both gallant points defeats to WBO titlist Arthur Abraham. Ward, who didn’t fight throughout 2014, is the WBA Super super-middleweight champion.
“They’ve enquired about Paul Smith to fight Andre Ward, talks are on going and I think he’s got a chance,” promoter Eddie Hearn revealed. “He had two good performances against Abraham in front of a big audience and Ward, regardless of what he’s said, he wants a comeback fight. He’s been out for nearly two years. If that’s his option – great for Paul Smith.”
Ward, still viewed as one of the most talented fighters in the sport despite his inactivity, has already said his next fight will be on June 20 in Oakland, home territory for the Californian.
“We were talking [with Roc Nation, Ward’s promoters] about Carl Froch, it’s not done and it might not happen but I think he [Smith] has got a good chance,” the promoter continued.
When it comes to Carl Froch’s next fight, he remains interested in the potential Las Vegas clash with Julio Cesar Chavez Jnr. “All eyes on Chavez next week, hopefully he beats [Andrzei] Fonfara, he might not,” Hearn said.
