someone made this exact same thread after the Dawson fight with a poll and Ill say now what I said then. Hopkins all day and he wouldve given RJ Hell at that point also. People forget how good a prime Hopkins was
If Hopkins can drop a decision to an athletically talented but not so skilled Taylor then Ward would beat him you have to imagine
He's asking about the Hopkins who fought against Trinidad. Back then, he was not struggling that much to respect 160lbs, and was a bit younger.
I'd pick Hopkins, better skill, defence, inside work, dirty tricks.
Ward is a great fighter in his physical prime and I don't think he is quite seasoned or reached his peak.
Hopkins. Their styles would clash but Hopkins would nullify Ward and his tactics. Hopkins is the craftiest man in the game.
Agreed. The Hopkins from Tito days was better than Ward is currently. Had everything Ward currently has and was stronger, bigger, and just that little bit craftier. Was/is also tougher.
I think Hopkins would win. Ward's wrestling, mauling, holding and hitting tatics would not work well on Hopkins, who is a master of all dirty tricks. On straight boxing I give Hopkins the edge. It's a close fight but I like Hopkins who I rank high among the all time greats.
Honestly I hate to give the not so accomplished fighter the nod, but I have to go with Ward. I think Ward has shown (even though its still early in his career)Hopkins like ability, yet the intangible is that Ward is quicker and more athletic. I mean Hopkins even in his prime was not that fast or athletic.( I predicted Ward would win the Dawson fight, the only surprise for me was the stoppage) I mean This opinion is coming from a huge Hopkins fan...I still believe Hopkins is one of the greatest and Ward is just a great fighter who still has alot to go to fill shoes of a Hopkins.:boxing:
I don't know, but I'd love to watch it, because Ward's probably the ONLY fighter that I could think of that could meet Hopkins head to head inside. I do think Ward's speed would affect Hops, but B would make it tough on Ward, very tough. It would be great to watch.