ESPN Re-signs Top Boxing Analyst And Former Champion
ESPN won’t be parting ways with one of its top boxing analysts anytime soon.
With boxing making a strong comeback after a down period due to the COVID-19 crisis, promoters and broadcasters have been working around the clock to deliver top combat sports action that fight fans crave. ESPN broadcasts Top Rank Boxing cards and has a commentary team that fans are familiar with.
One of the main voices in the booth is former multi-champion and Olympic gold medalist Andre Ward. ESPN has announced that it has reached a multi-year agreement with Ward.
ESPN re-signs @andreward to new multi-year deal
🥊 Undefeated two-division world champion & 2004 Olympic gold medalist continues as ringside analyst for @trboxing
🥊 Ward will continue to host 'Ring Science with Andre Ward' & 'Unguarded' on ESPN+
More: https://t.co/0WAtoPnd1Y pic.twitter.com/gxcSdlqVTN
— ESPN PR (@ESPNPR) September 2, 2020
Ward commented on the new deal and expressed his excitement in staying with the ESPN team.
“I have been blessed to work alongside some of the best in the business. I have a few specific goals when I’m behind the mic: I want to be an asset to ESPN, to the fighters and the sport and to be the best that I can possibly be week to week. Opportunities are limited in the sports media field and I’m thankful for the seat I get to sit in and the whole ESPN team.”
In the press release, ESPN senior vice president, production and remote events Mark Gross praised Ward for the knowledge he brings to the presentation during Top Rank Boxing cards.
“We are thrilled to have renewed our agreement with Andre. Andre has proved that his experience in the ring, and wealth of knowledge and passion for boxing, enriches our live boxing coverage. His contributions to boxing across other platforms and programs also makes for a truly unique perspective on the sport for fans.”
On September 21, 2017, Ward announced his retirement from the sport of boxing. Ward cited the damage his body had taken over the years as the reason for his decision. He has since made the transition to broadcasting.