At what age did you consider Bernard Hopkins "prime"?

[Thraxox]

To me he was Prime from 34-39 years old, at this point he learned every trick in the book of boxing be it legally or illegally and then some, probably the only one to compensate the age and physical gap against young fighters while all awhile not that far off physically.

When he fought Roy jones first time, I saw hopkins was "Green" veteran Hopkins would have fouled Jones to death and fake a rabbit punch to deduct a point from him.

Bernard Hopkins was probably the smartest fighter in boxing history.

[j.razor]

Good question but I wouldn't say the smartest....I would have to revisit his fights after Roy Jones Jr. cuz I think he was green too & that was a close fight.

[Beercules]

Better question is when did he start using PEDs

[GhostofDempsey]

I would say right around 32 was when he began his prime. It ended around 43-45. Without an amateur career it took him longer to peak. His conditioning and defensive style contributed significantly to his longevity. Careful selection of opponents helped too.