

JRE MMA Show #78 with Andre Ward
Sep 3, 2019
Andre Ward, a former boxing champion with a flawless 32-0 record and now an ESPN analyst, shares insights on the complexities of retirement in boxing. He discusses the emotional toll athletes face, including the haunting memories of other fighters' falls from grace. Ward delves into the resilience needed during heavyweights’ challenges and the vital boxer-trainer relationship that fosters success. He also emphasizes transforming negativity into motivation and navigating the psychological battles post-retirement, shedding light on the sport's intricacies and future prospects.
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Early Retirement Inspiration
- Andre Ward admired Roy Jones Jr.'s unique mindset of getting in and out of boxing.
- Inspired by Jones, Ward aimed to retire on top, unlike many fighters who decline.
Difficulty of Retiring
- Roy Jones Jr., despite intentions, continued fighting after rough knockouts.
- This highlights the difficulty of retiring at one's peak in combat sports.
Hopkins' Discipline
- Bernard Hopkins began his boxing career later in life after being released from prison. His time in prison developed his discipline to become successful.
- Hopkins recognized the lack of discipline in most fighters, choosing to live like a Spartan in contrast.