Kelly Pavlik Will Be Too Busy for Bernard Hopkins
- Posted on Tue, October 14th, 2008
- Boxing Predictions
The site. Atlantic City, New Jersey. The stakes. Top contender at light heavyweight. The prediction. "Th
e Ghost" Kelly Pavlik (34-0, 30 KO) by unanimous decision against the venerable "Executioner," Bernard Hopkins (48-5-1, 32 KO). Why? In a fight in which I do not expect either fighter to be seriously hurt, the man who simply throws more punches usually gets the nod on the scorecards. That man will be Kelly Pavlik.
The Case for Bernard Hopkins
It would be foolish to count the Executioner out of any fight, especially against an offensive-minded fighter like Pavlik. We all know what happened when another seemingly invincible, young and hard-punching fighter challenged a seemingly past-prime Hopkins nearly seven years ago. If you don’t remember, check out this video clip. Hopkins’ greatest moments have often come against fighters who force the action (think Antwun Echols), allowing him to spend minimum energy while counter-punching them with maximum effect.
The Case for Kelly Pavlik
Kelly Pavlik also has youth on his side. Some would say that age ain’t nothing but a number. And they are probably right in most aspects of life. However, boxing is not as forgiving. In fact, it can be downright brutal to fighters getting a little long in the tooth. At 43 years of age, Hopkins is both a medical marvel of sorts to still be competing at such a high level as well as a slightly delusional boxer who has clearly struggled against younger, more active fighters in recent years (Jermain Taylor twice and Joe Calzaghe). Pavlik is more active, younger and hits harder than anyone Hopkins has faced since Felix Trinidad in 2001.
A wise man once said, "the busier bee gets the honey." These words will tell the story on Saturday, October 18.
A Busy Pavlik Will Outlast Hopkins Over 12 Brisk Rounds.
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Here’s the case for Hopkins:
1. Older and more experienced in big situations.
2. Pavlik comes forward and his style may be countered by Hopkins’ guile and roughhouse tactics.
3. Unclear how Pavlik will do at this higher weight.
4. It’s boxing, anything can happen - Hopkins is just too good to count him out completely.
That said, I think reasonable fight fans have to give Pavlik the edge. His metal has been proved in tough bouts with top opponents. Bernard doesn’t seem to have the will to endure the punishment in the ring that it would take to seriously challenge Pavlik.
ReplySir Jenks,
Honestly, I have no qualms with your take. It could happen; just like the Dodgers could come back to beat the Phils in seven and go on to beat the Rays in the World Series. I simply wouldn’t bet on it.
ReplyAgree 100% Pavlik wins…but via KO! Yes, Hopkins has never been knocked out, but after the Calzaghe fight, you have to wonder whether he has the stamina to go up against a puncher like Pavlik. Some say that is perfect foil for Hopkins, but I believe at this stage of his career he no longer has the ability to neutralize power (Trinidad anyone?)
Pavlik TKO 12
ReplyI feel you “Snifer.” I just can’t envision the Executioner getting stopped though. If that happens, Pavlik will indeed earn “wow” points here.
Replyi liked the way larry merchant once put it, hopkins before was the tiger that would wait in weeds patiently until he knew when it was time to go after his prey now he waits for his prey to come and i believe sometimes he waits too long and nothing comes, his defense undoubtly is still thier but his offense is what i worry about, i am not going to pay to watch this fight if someone offers me to watch it for free then ill go
Replyyes, I am not sure I’ll be paying either…but, you know what, I am probably lying to myself.
ReplyYou will be shellshocked, Hopkins will win!
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ReplyNot sure when you sent this alleged prediction, but I didn’t see anything from you until now; what took you so long for this pick or to acknowledge all the previous times that I was not shell-shocked? LOL Indeed, Bernard shell-shocked a great many people, probably even you.
ReplyNever, ever, ever, ever write of ‘The Executioner’. He is one of the Purest Boxers in the Sports History.
ReplyHey Darren,
If you see the thread, you will see that I had some mild doubts on my prediction, but I guess you are right. Bernard Hopkins is now probably in the rare class of 40+ wonders in boxing that includes Archie Moore, George Foreman and now him.
ReplyI have the highest respect and admiration for Hopkins……Still love Pavlik!
ReplyYes, Hopkins has shut me up…for now.
ReplyOk I admit it, I was on the ghost too
Reply