This Is It For The Executioner: Bernard Hopkins versus Irish Joe Smith Jr.
By Robert Brizel, Head Real Combat Media Boxing Correspondent
Inglewood, California (October 28th, 2016)– At age 51, and still in the gym, but two years out of the ring after his title bout with Sergey Kovalev, ‘The Executioner’ returners. Bernard Hopkins will return to the ring one ‘final’ time to face Irish Joe Smith Jr. in a 12 round battle at 175 pounds. No title belt is at stake in this battle, which takes place December 17, 2016 at The Forum in Inglewood, California.
Hopkins, 55-7-2 with 32 knockouts, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, is favored to win by decision over Smith, 22-1 with 18 knockouts, Long Island, New York. Smith, currently world ranked in the top ten at light heavyweight, proved he is a hard hitter when he dropped Andrzej Fonfara in his last bout twice in the first round.
Hopkins must face youth, speed and strength against Smith, like he did with Kovalev. To beat Smith, Hopkins has to make major technical adjustments in his game plan. B-Hop’s defense is not in question, Bernard is no longer at a stage where he can overpower his opponents. He cannot afford to get careless with Smith, who has risen fast in six years and is knocking at the door of a world title opportunity. There are no guarantees for B-Hop.
The winner of this bout could get a shot at southpaw World Boxing Council World Light Heavyweight champion Adonis Stevenson of Blainville, Canada. At age 49, Stevenson versus Hopkins would be a great fit, if Bernard beats Smith and wants one more world title opportunity. If Smith beats Hopkins, Stevenson and Kovalev would be obliged to fight Smith. Any kind of 12 round draw or majority draw between Hopkins and Smith, which is theoretically possible, would keep both fighters in the mix for a world title shot at the aging Stevenson. Hopkins probably has a better shot beating Stevenson than he did with Kovalev, given the short of technical war Hopkins fighters. Smith will probably try to engage Hopkins in a slugfest. Look for Hopkins to keep his perimeter distance and try to outwork Smith. Hopkins better not let Smith inside. He might pay a price if smith can find him.
Foot movement and superior physical conditioning will decision who wins this bout. If Bernard has been in the gym throughout, as he always is, stamina will be an issue. Who gets off first will be an issue. A couple of knockdowns in either direction could significantly impact the scoring and the fight. For smith to win, he really has to be able to take Hopkins out. Smith is a great fighter, while Hopkins has the edge on experience and ring generalship. All in all, a very fascinating matchup. Hopkins says this will be his last bout. If he beats Smith, Bernard might be headed back to Canada to take on Stevenson in 2017.
COMMENTS
English