That's a good point about the risk and reward. I think it's a double edged sword with Ward.

Obviously, the risk is enormous. Ward is a top 3 talent in boxing today, and not only is he going to be extremely difficult to beat, there's also a strong possibility that he's going to make you look like shit (like slickers like Mayweather, Hopkins, Pernell, ect did).

On the reward side, unfortunately there's probably more money out there fighting opposition like Froch or JCC Jr, who are much softer opponents but who have more of a fan base.

But that's looking at the short term. We have to remember that Ward has more credibility within the boxing world than anyone outside of Mayweather. You beat Ward, and your stock skyrockets, which means bigger future purses and earning potential.

Bottom line IMO is that if you're a boxer - or an athlete in general - your ultimate goal should be to be the best in your field. If you really are worth a fuck, you should be gunning for the top guy to try to take his spot. Ward is undeniably the top guy, so anyone who's avoiding him is a straight up clown in my eyes.