Joe Rogan recently compared Andre Ward and Khabib Nurmagomedov, both fighters who walked away from lucrative offers to stay retired.  But is choosing legacy over money always the right decision? 

Ward famously turned down a big payday to fight Canelo Alvarez after Canelo’s victory over Sergey Kovalev.  This begs the question: Was Ward truly serving boxing better by staying retired, or was he simply avoiding a potentially tough fight? 

Ward has been critical of Canelo for not facing top contenders, stating that Canelo's legacy is being tarnished. But what about Ward's own legacy? Would a fight against Canelo have solidified his place as a boxing legend, or would it have been a risky move that could have cost him his undefeated record?  

Imagine if Ward had accepted the fight and lost. Would he still be admired for his career, or would that loss overshadow his achievements? 

Ward's decision highlights a common dilemma in combat sports: the tension between financial gain and preserving one's legacy. It also raises questions about the criteria for judging a fighter's greatness. Is it solely based on wins and losses, or are other factors, like facing tough opponents and staying true to one's principles, equally important?  

What do you think? Is it always better to prioritize legacy over money in combat sports? Or are there situations where a lucrative fight can enhance a fighter's legacy? 

Ultimately, there's no easy answer. Both Ward and Canelo have made choices that reflect their own values and priorities. Their stories serve as a reminder that the path to greatness in combat sports is rarely straightforward.

The Money Fight Dilemma: Did Andre Ward Make the Right Call?

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