Andre 'The Son of God' Ward Will Be Boxing's Next Superstar

WBA world super middleweight champion Andre “Son of God” Ward successfully defended his crown with a tough, unanimous decision victory over Sakio Bika last weekend at the Oracle Arena in Oakland, California.

Ward (23-0, 13 KOs), who is an orthodox fighter born across the Bay in San Francisco, managed to win despite suffering cuts near both his eyes.

On the roughest night of his career, Ward triumphed by expertly utilizing his left jab throughout the bout.

“I’m hard on myself and I don’t think I did good but we got the win and I’m proud of that,” said Ward, 26, who became the first American boxer in eight years to capture a gold medal when he did so as a light heavyweight at the 2004 Olympics in Athens, Greece.

Ward said he anticipated dealing with dirty tactics from Bika (27-3-2, 17 KOs).

“We expected this kind of fight with Bika,” said Ward. “Every laceration I have was literally from a headbutt or an elbow. I clearly remember each one of them. That’s what you get when you fight a guy like Sakio.”

For his part, Bika was gracious in defeat.

“Andre was a great warrior and he deserved to win,” said Bika, 31, a former IBO super middleweight king. “I’m just thankful that he gave me the opportunity.”

Ward’s next match has not yet been scheduled.

“One thing I am happy about is learning how to win different ways,” said Ward. “I want to be a great fighter and you have to learn to deal with every style. I could have made it an easier fight but…sometimes I want to mix it up.”

Ward possesses the skills and charisma to become a household name and glittering attraction in the ring.

“Ward is very good,” said South Boston native Eddie McGuire. “He could be boxing’s next superstar.”

Andre Ward is a “great fighter” and he will “be boxing’s next superstar.”