‘I’m Up There – Joe Ward waiting for opportunity to knock
Joe Ward says he is world-level and just needs the chance to prove it.
The multi-time World and European medal winner has been expressing a desire to level up for the last year and hasn’t been shy about stating he is ready for any of the big names.
However, the 30-year-old natural talent is aware his resume and reputation make securing those fights that little bit harder, so says heâll set about forcing the elite fighterâs hand.
The West Meath man gets a chance to impress in the spotlight when he fights veteran Derrick Webster in Madison Square Garden’s Theater tomorrow night – and hopes a good display will help his big fight chances.
âI donât think Iâm very far away,â said Ward when asked where he is in terms of the best at light heavyweight. âI believe Iâm up there, itâs just about getting the right opportunities at the right time. Iâm just waiting for the big opportunities and Iâm hoping 2024 can bring them. After a good performance against Derrick Webster on March 15, Iâm open to any of the top guys.â
Speaking on Webster who he faces on 360 Promotions Callum Walsh topped UFC Fight Pass broadcast bill, he added: “I hope he brings the best of him to put on a show, but thereâs only one outcome. Iâm going to take care of business in whatever fashion I want to.”
Some argue Ward has the ability to be dropped in at the deep end and could upset a name right now. Indeed, those same people would suggest at 30, that should be the route taken. However, respected coach Joey Gamache, who works closely alongside Jimmy Payne in guiding Ward, argues there is a process that has to be followed regardless of natural talent.
âIt takes three years to make a champion and ten seconds to end one. The point of it is, even though heâs an Olympian, you canât just throw him in there with anyone. You gotta keep developing him. Heâs now at the stage where things are gonna step up but heâll be ready,â said Gamache.
