Saturday 20 June 2015 07:48, UK
Paul Smith admits he'll have to catch Andre Ward on an off night in Oakland, but what does The Panel think will happen?
Jim Watt
Paul Smith knows he can mix it with the world level so if he goes in to this fight believing he can win, then that's good. And fair play to him.
I just think it's too big an ask and personally I am expecting a wide points win for Ward. Ward doesn't stop really good fighters, he just get things under control and keeps them there so I expect to see the full 12 rounds but a convincing points win for Ward.
Johnny Nelson
I have a feeling Paul Smith is going to be a much better opponent than Andre Ward is expecting, but Virgil Hunter is no mug. Ward is a surpreme technician, so good at hitting and not being hit and has the art of boxing down to a tee so I am afraid I can only see Paul struggling.
Ward is a surpreme technician, so good at hitting and not being hit and has the art of boxing down to a tee.
Smith is a good fighter and he will give it his all but he is not a brilliant boxer and you need to be if you are going to give Ward serious problems. I hate to say it but I think Ward is going to stop him, late on, around nine or 10.
Jamie Moore
People I've been speaking to don't give Paul much of a chance and it's a massive ask. Ward isn't a huge puncher. He doesn't hit as hard as Abraham and Paul's been the distance with him twice. Ring fitness could also be an issue down the stretch but I've got a feeling Ward has been in the gym a long time and has just been waiting. I think it's been a case of waiting for contracts to expire and it's not as if he's coming back from injury.
Ring fitness could also be an issue down the stretch but I've got a feeling Ward has been in the gym a long time.
The best Andre Ward beats the best Paul Smith and Paul has to hope the break has had an effect. I think Ward will win on points but Paul will come out with a lot of credit, and wins in defeat.
Spencer Oliver
As much as we all love Paul Smith, the weight factor is on Ward's side as well and you've got to go for him. He'll be too strong and he also has the skills.
As much as we all love Paul Smith, the weight factor is on Ward's side.
I think Smith will put up a good effort but I fancy Ward to win on points.
Glenn McCrory
I think Ward will box his way in rather than try to destroy Smith. He'll feel him out. His size and skill will play its part. Smith will be brave but I think against Ward, it may go against him because if he has a go at him then it might ignite a little fire in Ward.
I think Ward will box his way in rather than try and destroy Smith. He'll feel him out.
Sadly for British fight fans, I see a Ward stoppage in the second half of the fight, from the eighth round onwards.
Watch Andre Ward v Paul Smith and Adrien Broner v Shawn Porter live on Sky Sports 1, Sunday morning from 1.30am
