The Changing of the Guard Is Complete

[ProBox1]

It was very close. The old lion finally started to roar down the stretch of his 21st title defense, winning the last four rounds (although inexplicably losing the last round on judge Duane Ford’s official card – giving the decision to Taylor), but it was that early lead that the young challenger put together that staved off a final kill. As the fight between long-term champion Bernard Hopkins and Jermain Taylor began to unfold, one thought kept creeping into mind, “What is Hopkins waiting for?” Going in, it seemed the champion would either charge Taylor, as it almost looked as though he would do at the opening bell, or, more in character, wait out his inexperienced foe and pick his shots in order to wear him down. He chose the latter and Taylor seized his opportunity early with tough-minded aggression, trying to impose his strength on the champion. It won him rounds and it ultimately won him the fight.

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[Moon]

The "changing of the guard" will only be complete when the rematch has come-and-gone. For now, Taylor gets the belts, but not everyone's recognition. He was in a fight with Hopkins, it was not a gimme. The rematch will happen, then only then we can really start considering the "new guard".

[MrCoop]

The "changing of the guard" will only be complete when the rematch has come-and-gone. For now, Taylor gets the belts, but not everyone's recognition. He was in a fight with Hopkins, it was not a gimme. The rematch will happen, then only then we can really start considering the "new guard".

THIS STATEMENT IS 100% CORRECT.