Boxing Preview Analysis: Kelly Pavlik vs. Bernard Hopkins

ByLee Bellfield


© Jim Everett / Saddo Boxing

Bernard Hopkins, a pro now for 20 years, continues his remarkable career when he meets fellow American Kelly Pavlik in a 12 round light heavyweight bout in Atlantic City tonight, 18 October.

Hopkins, now 43, has done it all in his pro career. A middleweight champion for 10 years from 1995-2005, “The Executioner” made 20 successful defences of his title before losing it on a close decision to Jermain Taylor in July, 2005.

After losing a rematch five months later, many thought that was it for Hopkins. But six months later in June 2006, Hopkins resurfaced in the light heavyweight division, totally outworking and outclassing the recognised number one at that time, Antonio Tarver over 12 rounds.

The Indian summer continued 13 months later in July 2007 when he outscored the crafty Winky Wright to set up a superfight with the super middleweight number 1, Joe Calzaghe.

The two met in April this year and the slight underdog Hopkins shocked Calzaghe by decking the Welshman in the first round. However, the run wouldn’t continue as Calzaghe ground out a close decision win over the veteran.

In Pavlik, Hopkins meets a man undefeated as a professional and 17 years is junior at 26 years of age.

Pavlik has been a pro since 2000 and victories over the respected Bronco McKart and Edison Miranda earned Pavlik a shot at middleweight king Jermain Taylor in September last year.

In an exciting scrap, Pavlik’s heart, determination and will to win were the deciding factor as he KO’d the champion in 7. After winning a non-title rematch against Taylor on points, Pavlik has marked time by defending his title against Gary Lockett, who he KO’d in three in June of this year.

This is a fascinating matchup; youth vs. experience. Hopkins, as shown against Calzaghe, still has plenty in the tank. Pavlik, on the other hand, has youth and has yet to experience a pro defeat.

I’ve bet against Hopkins so many times in the past, I’m hesitant to do it again in this one. However, Pavlik’s youth and power must be taken into account while Hopkins’ canny boxing brain cannot be underestimated.

This fight is being held at light heavyweight, which Hopkins has been most comfortable at. We have yet to see Pavlik show his stuff at this higher weight.

Although part of me thinks that Pavlik’s youth and power will be the deciding factor, another part of me thinks that Hopkins might just completely outfox and frustrate his younger opponent.

I’m going for that other part. Hopkins on points.