Top 5 Greatest trilogies in boxing: Pt.4 Gatti vs. Ward
Welcome to the fourth installment of our five-part series chronicling the greatest and most influential trilogies in boxing history. Some fights are about belts. Some are about legacy. But a few are about something far more visceral heart, grit, and soul.Today, we dive into one of the most brutal, emotional, and unforgettable trilogies ever fought: Arturo Gatti vs. Micky Ward.
Gatti vs. Ward: A Trilogy Carved in Blood and Respect
When Arturo “Thunder” Gatti and Micky “Irish” Ward first met in May 2002, the boxing world didn’t fully expect what would unfold. There was no title on the line, no undefeated records at stake — just two honest warriors, known for their grit and willingness to brawl. But what followed was three fights that redefined what it means to leave everything in the ring.
The first bout instantly became the stuff of legend. Fought in Uncasville, Connecticut, it was a savage back-and-forth war. Gatti, the more technical boxer, showcased his speed and clean punching, while Ward, the blue-collar brawler, poured on relentless pressure. “Round 9” of that fight is now considered one of the greatest rounds in boxing history. both fighters nearly collapsed from the punishment, yet kept coming forward. Ward edged out a majority decision, and the boxing world knew they had witnessed something special.
Less than five months later, the rematch was set. This time, Gatti came in better prepared, boxing smarter while still engaging in brutal exchanges. Ward, ever the dogged fighter, pushed him to the limit. But Gatti’s adjustments earned him a clear decision victory, setting the stage for an epic third and final chapter.
The trilogy concluded in June 2003 in Atlantic City. Gatti’s adopted hometown. With both men now one win apiece, pride was everything. The third fight was once again a war of attrition, but this time with even more refined strategy. Gatti fought with a broken hand for much of the bout, yet somehow delivered one of his finest performances. He won by unanimous decision, but in truth, both fighters left the ring as legends.
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What made the Gatti-Ward trilogy so special wasn’t just the violence or the sheer volume of punches thrown — it was the mutual respect, the emotional weight, and the human drama that bled through every round. After the final bell, they embraced like brothers. Later, they became close friends, their rivalry turning into one of boxing’s most touching brotherhoods.
This trilogy is often described as a throwback to boxing’s golden era — no politics, no ducking, just two men willing to go through hell for the love of the sport and the roar of the crowd. For fans, it was a reminder of why boxing matters, not for the belts or the headlines, but for the spirit.
READ MORE : Top 5 Greatest trilogies in boxing: Pt.3 Sugar Ray vs LaMotta
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