...How does the 1985 incarnation, who fought Marvin Hagler to a standstill, fare against the Bernard Hopkins who defined his career with a systematic dismantling of Felix Trinidad? I thought this might've been run before, so apologies if it has --- a quick search revealed nothing. I like Hopkins to shut Hearns down in the back-half of the fight, winning a tight decision. 6-5-1, 115-114, Bernard Hopkins, IMO.
Ummm, Hearns got knocked senseless by Hagler. Nevertheless, I don't see Hopkins winning a decision. Did anyone ever out box and out point Hearns? I know Barkley did in the rematch, but that was a damaged version of Hearns. No, I think Hopkins has to rough Hearns up early, take his legs away and stop him late. Otherwise Tommy's long left hand limits anything Hopkins might try and helps him eek out a decision.
I just meant that Hagler & Hearns fought a barn-burner, & that Hopkins would use various tactics to limit Hearns' offense, rather than out-box him in the traditional sense, with movement & a hard, steady jab.
I like Hops in this one by decision or possibly a 12th round KO... DIRTY fight and Hearns would be off his game because of it... also because he wouldnt respect Bernard's punch enough, he would neglect his sublime boxing skills which just further enables The Executioner to do his thing and stifle him
The only thing that troubles me is how Bernard handles Hearns particular brand of firepower. He faced some punchers but no one quite like Hearns. Roy hits hard and was faster but Hearns is a very different puzzle. I think Bernard catches absolute hell before he lands one of those sneaky right hands and rattles Tommy badly. Once he can close the distance his strength and tactics make it his fight.
