TalkingBoxing.com Interview

January 29, 2004
Interview with MICKY WARD
"I'm getting ready for the Boston marathon"

by Santiago Rodriguez
    One of boxing's truest warriors, "Irish" Micky Ward will be remembered for his decade worth of memories inside the ring and with his recent retirement, Ward hasn't given a return to the squared circle a second thought. Ward said, "I'm glad I got out when I did. I gave my all. I know I gave my all and I know its time." Ward remains busy in the sport working with a few fighters, namely Jeff Faraza, Sean Eklund and Matt Ryan, teaching them his craft. This past weekend, Ward was in his friend and former foe, Arturro Gatti's corner when Gatti picked up the WBC title, a fight Ward thought Gatti won "convincingly." Ward remains physically fit and is in training for the Boston Marathon on April 19th. TalkingBoxing's Santiago Rodriguez caught up with one of our generations' best known fighters to discuss life after boxing.

former WBU champion, Micky Ward

Santiago Rodriguez: What's new Mick?

Micky Ward: Same ole' same ole'

Santiago Rodriguez: How has life after the sport been treating you?

Micky Ward: Good, I'm getting ready for the Boston Marathon. I just started running again.

Santiago Rodriguez: When can we expect to see that?

Micky Ward: Mid April I'm not sure of the date but it's in April. (Patriots Day, April 19th)

Santiago Rodriguez: Do you still feel tempted to come out of retirement even though you know in your mind you don't want to?

Micky Ward: To be honest, no, not really. I'm glad I got out when I did, I gave my all, I know I gave my all and I know its time. I'm happy with what I did in there and its time for me to get out.

Santiago Rodriguez: What are your thoughts on Gatti vs. Branco?

Micky Ward: I thought Gatti won convincingly, I mean Branco, was awkward and he did come to box.

Santiago Rodriguez: You and Gatti have become close since your epic trilogy, have you ever thought maybe he should join you in retirement?

Micky Ward: No, its how he feels. If he feels he can continue, then he should.

Santiago Rodriguez: Do you worry that the wars will catch up with him sooner or later?

Micky Ward: Of course, I can only hope he gets out before that happens.

Santiago Rodriguez: Are you going to become a trainer from here on out? If so, who would you be working with?

Micky Ward: Yes. I am working with Jeff Faraza and Sean Eklund and also Matt Ryan.

Santiago Rodriguez: Are you still in the construction business?

Micky Ward: Yeah, well I haven't gone back to that yet. What I am going to do is sit back, weigh out my options, and see what's best. If something better comes along I will take that but we will see.

Santiago Rodriguez: New England is in the Super Bowl, any predictions?

Micky Ward: Ha, ha, you know it.. I would have to say it will be 28-14 New England.

Santiago Rodriguez: Thanks a lot, Mick, for everything you have given boxing, we all love and respect what you have done for us.

Micky Ward: Thanks, my pleasure.

TalkingBoxing would like to thank the one and only Micky Ward for taking time out his busy schedule to do this interview. Enjoy your time off and we can't wait to see you run the Boston Marathon!