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Bernard Hopkin’s dominant, near shutout performance over Antonio Tarver in their recent IBO Light Heavyweight Championship bout should have surprised no one. Hopkins' is the modern day version of the “Old Mongoose”, Archie Moore, fully capable of executing a stellar performance and further elevating his secure position among boxing’s all time great titleholders.
Those who declared his championship days over following consecutive decision defeats at the hands of young Jermain Taylor were sadder, yet infinitely wiser following Hopkins' drubbing of Tarver. The Philadelphia Champion’s twenty championship defenses placed him firmly alongside Ketchel, Robinson, Monzon and Hagler, the historical elite of the great Middleweight class.
Many thought Bernard’s stunning career had reached it’s end after the two defeats by Taylor. Although both verdicts were justifiable, Hopkins came close to retaining, and regaining his championship against a young, talented and dynamic foeman in Taylor. Hopkins fought, and he lost! [details]
Those who declared his championship days over following consecutive decision defeats at the hands of young Jermain Taylor were sadder, yet infinitely wiser following Hopkins' drubbing of Tarver. The Philadelphia Champion’s twenty championship defenses placed him firmly alongside Ketchel, Robinson, Monzon and Hagler, the historical elite of the great Middleweight class.
Many thought Bernard’s stunning career had reached it’s end after the two defeats by Taylor. Although both verdicts were justifiable, Hopkins came close to retaining, and regaining his championship against a young, talented and dynamic foeman in Taylor. Hopkins fought, and he lost! [details]