Awaiting Result of Andre Ward-Dan Goossen Arbitration

By Robert Morales

There has been no word on the result of Tuesday's arbitration hearing with the California State Athletic Commission regarding the situation with super middleweight champion Andre Ward and his promoter, Dan Goossen of Goossen Tutor Promotions.

Ward, the No. 2 pound-for-pound fighter on most lists, claimed in a statement released this week that Goossen was preventing him from "defending my title and pursuing my profession" by refusing to show up for a meeting with HBO regarding a potential September date for his next fight.

Ward's manager, James Prince, said there are "multiple reasons to terminate the promotional agreement with Goossen and we are following proper procedures with our sole objective of always doing what is in the best interests of Andre Ward."

Goossen could not be reached for comment. But a source close to the situation who wished to remain anonymous said he is hopeful a decision will soon be forthcoming.

Ward has not fought since stopping Chad Dawson in the 10th round last September in Oakland, Ward's hometown. Ward had subsequent shoulder surgery.

Robert Morales covers boxing for the Los Angeles Daily News and BoxingScene.com.