MIKKEL Kessler has vowed to bounce back stronger than ever after losing to Andre Ward in the Super Six tournament.

Kessler's defeat is a massive blow to Nottingham's WBC super-middleweight champion Carl Froch, who had hoped to unify the WBC and WBA titles in Copenhagen next March.

The Viking Warrior Kessler was trailing on all three scorecards – 98-92, 98-92 and 97-93 – when the contest was stopped in the 11th round due to a cut caused by an unintentional butt.

"I have lost the world title once and won it straight back," said Kessler, who was second best to the young American throughout.

"With the support of my fans in Denmark I will beat Carl Froch and become world champion again.

"That is why this tournament is great – I have the chance to make amends immediately."

Promoter Kalle Sauerland said: "Ward proved he belongs into this tournament and that he has a golden future.

"The great thing about the Super Six is that Mikkel can take revenge soon, as their paths might cross again.

"I have no doubts that the Viking Warrior will come back stronger than ever and we will see an exciting fight against Carl Froch. That fight will be massive."