For this one, we look back at the Hopkins-Wright match up. Further cementing B-Hop`s legacy, this fight started a trend of the Hopkins being unfairly underestimated. It also showed the beginning decline (and eventual disappearance) of Winky Wright.
Needless to say, I was off on this one:
"That's a tough one to call. Given the superior defense of these fighters, this could be a slow battle with a lot of counterpunching. It's as close to a pick em fight as I can remember.
Hopkins, a former former jailhouse champ, was able to defend his middleweight title for 10 years because he is a crafty defensive fighter that minimized his opponents opportunities. He has moved to light heavyweight easily as he is larger fighter that seems comfortable at the heavier weight. He should have the advantage in punching power, especially in body shots like the one he landed to knock out De La Hoya. However, I do not see Wright getting caught flush too often. Bernard is also in his forties and may have stayed around too long.
Like Hopkins, Wright has been successful because of his superior defense and counter punching. He has possibly the best defense and most difficult style in boxing. If he is able to land his jab in Hopkins face, especially in combinations with his left hook he should give Hopkins plenty of trouble. Wright will be moving up from middleweight and junior middleweight where he has his most experience. He is also apparently more comfortable at light heavy as he is naturally larger. This should mean added power on his jab and hook.
I predict a close fight that will be a defensive chess match between two of the sports best fighters. Both men have proven to be impervious to knock outs and neither has shown much knockout power over their careers.
My pick would be Wright by decision."
Hopkins, a former former jailhouse champ, was able to defend his middleweight title for 10 years because he is a crafty defensive fighter that minimized his opponents opportunities. He has moved to light heavyweight easily as he is larger fighter that seems comfortable at the heavier weight. He should have the advantage in punching power, especially in body shots like the one he landed to knock out De La Hoya. However, I do not see Wright getting caught flush too often. Bernard is also in his forties and may have stayed around too long.
Like Hopkins, Wright has been successful because of his superior defense and counter punching. He has possibly the best defense and most difficult style in boxing. If he is able to land his jab in Hopkins face, especially in combinations with his left hook he should give Hopkins plenty of trouble. Wright will be moving up from middleweight and junior middleweight where he has his most experience. He is also apparently more comfortable at light heavy as he is naturally larger. This should mean added power on his jab and hook.
I predict a close fight that will be a defensive chess match between two of the sports best fighters. Both men have proven to be impervious to knock outs and neither has shown much knockout power over their careers.
My pick would be Wright by decision."
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