Headline News

“These are the fights I need” – Steven Ward happy to face toughest test yet on Frampton card


Steven Ward [4(1)-0] is expecting the toughest test of his career to date on the big Carl Frampton bill in the Odyssey Arena this weekend, but ‘The Quiet Man’ is excited about the possibility of making some boxing noise in front on the biggest card to come to Belfast this year.

Josip Perkovic [4(2)-2(0)-1], who provides the opposition for the MTK fighter this weekend, certainly isn’t a world beater, but has proved a game a foe in all of his 7 fights to date and Ward expects him to come and have go on Saturday.

The Croat has gone the distance in a competitive fight with German champion Toni Kraft, drawn with top Italian prospect Kevin Di Napoli and comes into the clash on the back of knockout win – and his credentials excite rather than worry the 27 year old light heavyweight.

Ward believes he will look better against adventurous opponents and is hopeful Perkovic will help him stand out on this weekend’s Cyclone Promotions promotion.

“It’s definitely my toughest fight yet,” he told Irish-Boxing.com of the big Balkan.

“He is durable fella and has a winning record, he has four wins two loses, and his two loses were to quality guys. He went the distance with the German champion. These are the fights I need and I am excited to be getting the opportunity.”

“I am excited about this fight and what he brings to the table. Hopefully he brings the best out of me,” Ward added before claiming his last opponent was stopped because he was the first to show a desire to fight.

“I knew it was there [stoppage power] it was just about getting the opponent that was willing to throw back at me. I definitely don’t think I will have to worry about this guy throwing back, he is going to come for a fight.”

“It’s always good to get the stoppage out of the way and settle a couple of demons out of your head.”

Ward has been fortunate enough to fight on noted TV bills since turning over and has been a feature on Jamie Conlan and Paddy Barnes fight nights, but he claims there is something different about appearing on a Carl Frampton card and seems honoured to be fighting on an Irish fight legend’s bill.

“I was lucky to be on big cards previously with Jamie and Paddy, but Belfast comes to a standstill when Frampton fights. It’s great to be on it and be part of the build up this week. It’s great, really exciting and I am really looking forward to it.”

Photo Credit: Ricardo Guglielminotti – The Fighting Irish (ThefIrish)

gym trition

frayne carpentry

irishboxing

Integral part of the Irish boxing community for over 13 years

x