‘We just robbed Russia’: Internet reacts to controversial #KovalevWard boxing decision
Despite hitting the floor in the second-round, Andre Ward went on to beat Sergey Kovalev in a controversial points decision from the judges. The result of the light-heavyweight fight has caused tempers to flare online, however.
READ MORE: Ward edges ‘Krusher’ Kovalev in close fight to take titles & top P4P spot
“Did they really just give that fight to Andre Ward? Well if Trump can win the presidency then anything is possible these days,” boxer Chris Eubank Jr. tweeted, in a sentiment shared by many who thought the decision was indicative of a world in which Donald Trump can become the leader of the US.
Did they really just give that fight to Andre Ward? Well if Trump can win the presidency then anything is possible these days #KovalevWard
— Chris Eubank Jr (@ChrisEubankJr) November 20, 2016
Ok, we are taking #MakeAmericaGreatAgain too far! We just robbed Russia #KovalevWard
— Marcellus Wiley (@marcelluswiley) November 20, 2016
Ward himself seemed surprised at the result when he heard the decision. The boxer scored 114-113 on all three judges’ scorecards.
Andre Ward was completely surprised of the unanimous decision #KovalevWardhttps://t.co/3YtleK2v9l
— The Sports Junky (@TheSportsJunky1) November 20, 2016
The official judges scorecard for #KovalevWard@CommDigiNewspic.twitter.com/NffAhZkm65
— Gayle Falkenthal APR (@PRProSanDiego) November 20, 2016
“A ridiculous decision and another black eye for boxing,” one tweet read, with many criticizing the judges.
PSA: If #KovalevWard is the worst decision you've ever witnessed then you haven't been watching boxing for very long...
— Dept. Of Cynicism (@jamaaldelaney) November 20, 2016
Kovalev won that fight hands down. A ridiculous decision and another black eye for boxing. I feel so bad for Krusher. #KovalevWard#robbery
— Eric Botham (@EricBotham) November 20, 2016
These judges... #KovalevWardpic.twitter.com/3pa1F9zm5Z
— Spark Sports (@Spark_Sports_) November 20, 2016
All Judges from USA 🇺🇸 absolute disgusting #KovalevWard#TeamKovalev 🇷🇺
— BOXING CORNER 24/7 (@boxingcorner247) November 20, 2016
Thoroughly enjoyed #KovalevWard up until Kovalev let the Electoral College decide the winner of the match. #boxing
— H.R. (@UAP_hunter) November 20, 2016
Others, including former professional Manny Pacquiao, saw the result as fair, praising both fighters for their efforts. Fellow professional Amir Khan praised Ward for his “amazing performance.”
Great fight by both @KrusherKovalev and @AndreWard They both poored their hearts out in the ring. #KovalevWard
— Manny Pacquiao (@mannypacquiao) November 20, 2016
Well done & congratulations Team @andreward and Virgil hunter. Amazing performance by ward. #KovalevWard
— Amir Khan (@amirkingkhan) November 20, 2016
Shoutout to my guy @andreward for getting it done tonight!!! God is good! pic.twitter.com/VcTtHmVm2U
— Stephen Curry (@StephenCurry30) November 20, 2016
Kovalev criticized the decision in a post-fight interview, saying “I’m a guest here in the USA, and he’s a local, and all the judges are from the USA. I agree they support their boxer, but honestly, this is sport. Don’t make it like politics.”
READ MORE: ‘I’m honored I will bring the Russian flag into the ring’ - boxing champ Sergey Kovalev
When asked about the possibility of a rematch, Kovalev was enthusiastic, saying “Sure – and I’ll kick his ass.”
