Andre Ward pulls out of November 21 fight due to injury

Andre Ward (28-0, 15 KOs) will no longer be fighting on the undercard of the WBC middleweight title bout between Miguel Cotto and Canelo Alvarez on November 21 at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, because of injury.

The American was set to make his debut at light heavyweight against Colombian Alexander Brand (24-1, 19 KOs), but has been ruled out because of inflammation and pain in his right knee.

"I'm extremely disappointed that I'm missing this opportunity on November 21, but at the same time, I'm encouraged," said Ward.
"Anytime I have had a minor or major setback in my career, by the grace of God, I've come back stronger and this will be no different. I'm looking forward to a big 2016. Thank you to all my fans for your support and patience."

Ward's promoter Roc Nation, which also promotes Cotto, is working to add a replacement fight to the card.

"We have no doubt that Andre will come back stronger than ever once his knee heals and that he will be a force in the light-heavyweight division," said Roc Nation executive David Itskowitch.
"We are working diligently to make an intriguing fight that will deliver a level of excitement commensurate with this great event."

Ward is expected to take on WBA (Super), WBO and IBF light heavyweight champion Sergey Kovalev next year.