By Vadim Pushkin
Sergey Kovalev (30-1, 26 KOs) is waiting patiently, but has not received any information regarding a rematch with Andre Ward (31-0, 15 KOs).
According to Kovalev, there has been absolutely no information on whether or not Ward intends to fight him.
Last November at the T-Mobile Arena in Las Vegas, Ward got off the floor to win a close twelve round unanimous decision over Kovalev to capture the IBF, WBA, WBO light heavyweight world titles. All three judges scored it 114-113 in Ward's favor.
There was an immediate rematch clause. Kovalev exercised his right to a second fight, but he says there has been no movement in terms of the negotiations for the contest.
Ward is contractually unable to fight anyone other than Kovalev next.
"From Ward's side... everyone is silent, there is no information. It's difficult to say what would happen if the rematch does not take place. Right now I am now busy with household chores. I will start preparing for the next fight immediately upon returning to the United States on February 20. If Ward is not will fight, then we will fight those fighters who actually want to fight... we will review our options, since I need to pursue my career," said Kovalev to Margarita Yakapov.
Kovalev's promoter, Kathy Duva of Main Events, confirms that there has been no movement on the negotiations for a rematch with Ward, but she remains hopeful that the fight will take place.
"The discussions with Ward's promoters have not started. Apparently they are not ready to start," said Duva. "Sergei came back from his vacation, during which he had time to travel around the world, and he is looking forward to the moment when he can begin preparing for the next fight. He hopes that Ward will keep his word and give Sergei the opportunity to regain the belts in a rematch."
