The Sweet Science

Andre Ward, born and raised in Oakland, is currently in Athens, Greece getting ready to take on the world in the boxing ring. America's best shot for gold as a pugilist, he is one of dozens of athletes at the Olympics with ties to the Bay Area. This guy hasn't lost a fight since he started boxing at age fourteen - much like his father, who was undefeated in fifteen bouts. A light heavyweight, Ward trains at King's Gym in Oakland.

San Francisco is historically a hotbed of boxing, which has been declining in popularity here in the states for generations - and Don King certainly isn't doing anything to restore its image. Still, the sweet science is alive and well here by the Bay. You can catch an amateur Fight Night at the Irish Cultural Center in the Sunset, head down to the Cow Palace for fights, and catch premiere boxers in San Jose during Fight Nights at the Tank. So go get yourself some arm candy, a nice cigar and some cash to lay bets on your favorite fighters.