Sergey Kovalev vs. Andre Ward looks to be on tap for later this year (Photo: Naoki Fukuda)

By Chris Robinson

One of the most anticipated fights in the sport to be made is the Sergey Kovalev vs. Andre Ward matchup, which looks to be on tap for later this year, possibly in Las Vegas.

Trainer Abel Sanchez gave me his thoughts on the bout recently, and is leaning towards Kovalev, possibly via late stoppage.

Sanchez, who owns and runs the Summit Gym in Big Bear, Calif., has a unique view of the matchup.

Sanchez used to train Kovalev prior to his championship run at light heavyweight and knows well of his abilities. Sanchez has also been keeping a close on Ward over the years, as fans have had a vested interest in his fighter, lineal middleweight champion Gennady Golovkin, possibly facing the Oakland star.

Sanchez also trained Cuba’s Sullivan Barrera for his matchup with Ward this past March. Barrera was unsuccessful in his bid to upset Ward’s apple cart, dropping a unanimous decision victory to him.

Sanchez has respect for Ward’s abilities but doesn’t feel he is sharp enough, at least not without another tune-up, to defeat Kovalev.

Check below for the full interview.

Chris Robinson can be reached at CRobinson@hustleboss.com