Today, we’re joined by a man with one of the most decorated records in modern Irish boxing: three European gold medals, two World Championship silver medals, an Olympic appearance and a career as a professional contender.
Since turning professional, his path hasn’t always been straightforward. From overcoming a freak injury on his debut in New York to stringing together a run of victories, his most recent opponent – inactivity – has proved one of the toughest of all.
But that all ends at the 3Arena on 8 August, when he takes on dangerous knockout artist Artjom Kasparian. With 14 wins and 12 KOs, including four last year, the Armenian-born Dutchman, who is based in Manchester, isn’t coming to play. But neither is Joe Ward.
The Westmeath southpaw explains how he has stayed ready in the gym despite not fighting since 2024, why beating up journeymen wouldn’t have done him much good anyway and why he is primed to deliver a statement performance on his Zuffa Boxing debut. But it isn’t all about the performance – it’s also about bringing out the dog inside him and winning by any means necessary.
Joe also discusses the recent struggles of his former amateur team and why its boxers need to show that same fighting spirit to bring home medals. He reflects on his time alongside Katie Taylor and explains why he can’t wait for her Croke Park swansong. He also talks about the huge loss to Irish boxing following Zaur Antia’s departure for the USA and his joy at seeing his two sons follow in his footsteps by becoming Irish champions in their own right.
The card also features Aaron McKenna fighting for a world title and Callum Walsh making his Irish return. But if anyone thinks boxing is solely a young man’s game, the veteran is adamant that class is permanent – and he intends to prove it on the night.
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