Watched the Ward vs Barrera fight this evening also. Wanted to scout and see where Ward's at right now. Ward won a 12 round decision. I, and most others, expected him to win so, no big deal or a pat on the back. He did knock Barrera down off a short left hook counter, but if you've ever sparred much you know that doesn't mean you have power. Ward showed some defensive craft and ring savvy but not much abundant or blistering offense. Mostly he fought with craft and paced himself to do enough to win but other than that counter shot he never took over one round and beat up Barrera. By the 10th round he looked tired and to be fair was simply getting by with some effective counters to win rounds but never overtaking Barrera at all.
On the other side, Barrera looked slow, plodding, deliberate, predictable, but strong, conditioned, and determined. Barrera did land punches; he landed many punches on Ward. Compubox records 111 connects but those don't count the partial connects or blocked punches that still have effects. Barrera just doesn't have the skill, speed, or power to handle a higher level of craft at this point in his career.
After the fight, Ward didn't do any jumping around or leaping celebration. His face was cut and bruised. His body is likely very sore. He looked the smaller man. I'd say he looked disappointed with his performance. Kovalev was in the crowd; he was smiling ear to ear when the camera was on him. If I were him I would be too. With his long, quick strides, fast turns, long range straight explosive shots, fueled by his high paced furious aggression, Ward is going to collapse under fire. Kovalev will match Ward's mobility, walk through Ward's weak offense, and counter Ward's defense with armor piercing shots that will destroy his ability to defend and frighten his ability to fight.
We simply ask the question: if Ward's last six opponents Abraham, Froch, Dawson, Rodriguez, Smith, and Barrera can all land on Ward, and most easily went the distance, why would Kovalev, who would demolish all of those fighters within six rounds each, not only land on Ward but really beat him badly? I agree with DWF Upside, I doubt the fight happens but hope it does.