Lack of respect helped ward

[*TonyMontana*]

Refusing to shake kovalev hand really got in sergey's head
He respects ward
But ward shows kov no respect whatsoever
Watch the start of round 3 for instance, referee splits up the fighters about 20 seconds in and warns both(mainly kov) to keep it clean
During this kov is trying to touch gloves with ward
Ward just looks him in the eyes and doesn't acknowledge him trying to touch gloves and leaves kov hangin
Why is kov trying to be so friendly???
Anybody else notice this?

[Redd Foxx]

I think the formalities/respect were one thing, but there was also the arrogance of overlooking at the fact he might be able to come back.
While Kovalev's fans (and Kovalev himself) were just giving him rounds after the KD without objectively scoring, Ward was taking back the fight.

[mannyman]

I saw that too... Wards a true competitor and although I'm all for respect can stand it when fighters try being best mates in the ring.. F_ck. That. ****. They're there to fight!

[*TonyMontana*]

I think the formalities/respect were one thing, but there was also the arrogance of overlooking at the fact he might be able to come back.
While Kovalev's fans (and Kovalev himself) were just giving him rounds after the KD without objectively scoring, Ward was taking back the fight.

Think kov expected ward to fold
Didn't press for the ko very much
Maybe he thought he would break ward
Now kov saying he had mental issues leading up to the fight
Will be better next time etc
Kov's a sore loser