Posted by Teddy Panos, Sun Staff

Micky Ward is taking a major step up in class as a boxing trainer.

The former Lowell fighter has been tabbed to replace Buddy McGirt as Arturo Gatti’s head trainer for his upcoming bout. Gatti is scheduled to enter the ring July 14th in Atlantic City against a yet unnamed opponent.

“This came totally out of the blue” said Ward, who received a call from his one-time adversary a little after noon Thursday. “I’m surprised, but excited at the opportunity to train a 3-time World Champion.”

The legendary warriors became close friends after their epic three fight trilogy beginning in May of 2002. Ward retired after their last bout in June of 2003 and has been in the corner for all six of Gatti’s fights since, but in a largely ceremonial role. This marks the first time Ward will be calling all the shots at ringside and leading up to the fight. Besides studying tape and helping put together a game plan during training camp, Ward will also take an active role in sparring sessions.

Lowell’s 41-year old favorite son leaves April 29th for Gatti’s training camp in Vero Beach, Florida, where he’ll stay for the next nine weeks. “I was never gone that long even when I was fighting,” said Ward. “But I can’t wait. This could open up opportunities for me with other big name fighters.”

Ward also reports plans are progressing on the movie chronicling his and half-brother Dickie Ecklund’s lives. The original plan called for filming of “The Fighter” to begin this summer, but the time frame has been pushed back to the fall while the script is being re-worked.