By Hector Duarte Jr.


As we wind down to September 18th’s middleweight title bout between Oscar De La Hoya and Bernard Hopkins, fight fans anxiously conjure up different scenarios as to how they feel this bout may unfold.


Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins has been slated as the favorite, and for good reason. Hopkins versality in the ring and out of the ring make him the craftiest and most dangerous opponent Oscar has ever faced. And if the performances turned in by both Hopkins and De la Hoya back in June are any indication of what to expect on September 18, then the “Satchel Paige of Boxing” will be striking gold in his 19th defense of the middleweight crown.


WORK ETHIC


Edge:Bernard Hopkins Can anyone recall the last time Bernard Hopkins appeared for a fight looking anywhere near as pudgy as De La Hoya looked against Felix Sturm?


Now, before any of you Golden Girlies cry foul, allow me to elaborate on my point. You see, Hopkins approach to the sport of boxing is based on the realization that at his age he cannot afford a loss. He knows that the only way for his age to catch up to him is if he trains simply to “get by” his opponent. In the 17 years he’s been fighting, Bernard has yet to show any sign of aging. So don’t expect Father Time to catch up to Hard ‘Nard on the 18th.


Furthermore, Hopkins has remained completely focused and dedicated to his career as a prizefighter. You won’t find him in the recording studio cutting an album, or mingling with celebrities. He is the complete fighter, a true throwback who always finds a way to win. Even if it means fighting with a separated shoulder, like when he rallied back to stop hard hitting Antwon Echols.


RISING TO THE OCCASION


It’s true that Oscar has fought on the big stage more times than has Hopkins, but don’t be fooled. He had a glorified sparring session with Yory Boy Campas; pounded on Fernando Vargas who was damaged goods at the time; and looked less than stellar against Felix Sturm.


It’s apparent Oscar lacks the hunger that Hopkins has. Don’t believe me? Then explain to me how a 36-year old Bernard was able to systematically crush Felix Trinidad. Yeah, I know Goldie got jobbed against Tito, but Hopkins didn’t sit on his lead. He finished Tito in the final round of a one-sided beating he could have won on the scorecards. Hopkins tank is never empty after the 8th round. His desire to prove he’s the best sets him apart from the frontrunners. Hopkins is intent on winning at all costs and simply refuses to lose.


Remember, Hopkins is a true throwback. Wheras Oscar has benefitted from the fact that today’s title fights no longer go 15 rounds. I’m sure his losses to Trinidad & the rematch with Shane Mosley would be alot less debateable if they were scheduled for 15 rounds.


KEYS TO WIN


It’s a given that Oscar cannot match power with Hopkins. It’s easy for any fool to say, “Well Goldie is gonna have to box.” But those who say that must realize that Oscar has changed from a polished boxer into a broke man’s answer to James Toney minus the defensive wizardry or craftiness needed to make the style work. And don’t give me that crap about Oscar’s jab. Today, he simply paws with and brings it back too low.


With that in mind, Hopkins’ gameplan will include, but not be limited to the following


1. Hopkins must not let Oscar set the pace of the bout. Expect Hopkins to disrupt Oscar’s rhythm with the jab. The jab thrown by Felix Sturm was on the money, as it was bounced off De La Hoya’s mug repeatedly. Expect Bernard to do the same.


2. The right cross - Oscar had better not try that shoulder rolling’, left hand by my Krispy Kreme sponsored waistline stuff with the Executioner. Bernard will not hesitate to fire his laser of a right over Goldie’s left shoulder should Oscar use that style of fighting. Hopkins right hand can put a man out at any point in the fight. Example: Yeah, you guessed it, Felix Trinidad.


3. Bang the body - Oscar’s cup (kidney protector/gut restrainer) is no mistake. Body shots will weaken him surprisingly quickly. Hopkins will bang downstairs with his right cross and right uppercut. He will keep his left hand up high and not expose himself to Oscar’s left hook. Furthermore it will set up his own left hook to Oscar’s head. Oh, and you can count on Hopkins to make sure Oscar’s protective cup/inner tube is on the waistline and not on his chest.


4. Thinking Ahead - Bernard Hopkins does this better than anyone. He has an answer for anything that his opponents bring to the table. Add to that the fact that his array of tools make him one of today’s most versatile fighters. True Oscar may have a deadly left hook as his best punch, but Hopkins has the advantage in that he throws all of his punches well. He posesses solid all-around skills and rarely makes a mistake.


PREDICTION:


Hopkins by unanimous decision in what will be a tactical fight. I think Oscar will come in the best shape possible and give Hopkins some difficulty early on. Hopkins will take control by round 4 and begin to find openings to exploit. Oscar may visit the canvas in later rounds, but his heart won’t allow him to stay down.


Questions? Comments?

Contact Hector Duarte Jr. at Fonzy_90270@Yahoo.com