Dwight Muhammad Qawi vs Bernard Hopkins (moves up after Glen Johnson fight)

Without making any definitive picks I’m just going to say that Hopkins would have a good chance if he in fact moved up younger. He was a technically masterful boxer both offensively and defensively with excellent instincts, stamina and durability

 

Qawi beats the hell out of Hopkins who would have nothing to keep the rampaging ultra skilled Qawi off him.

Spinks had genuine KO power and kept Qawi honest Hopkins never had a stoppage in his entire career at Light Heavyweight so he wouldn't have the power to keep Qawi honest.

Also Hopkins liked to fight at his own pace he wouldn't have that luxury vs Qawi.

Over 12 rounds it's a convincing decision win for Qawi.

Over 15 round a possible late stoppage for Qawi.

 

At 175, Dwight takes him. Bernard was a good, not great, lightheavyweight. His record speaks for itself there. Prime Dwight was great at 175. No kos here though.

 

You beat me to it, young man, lol. Well put!

 

Much respect to Hopkins but i believe Qawi would give it to Bernard on the inside. Dwight was very strong at 75. He had skills too. He could slip and slide on his way in.

Bernard does not want to meet this guy in the bathtoom, this aint Bill Haney.

 

Horrible stylistic match-up for Hopkins.

 

Hopkins is a lot bigger man than people realise. He was as dedicated as virtually anyone ever, he was an absolute spartan. This is what allowed him to firstly make middleweight, and secondly make it for years. Even so he was dead at the weight around Taylor time. He was a very big middleweight.

I've read claims his in ring weight was -

166 vs Echols
168 and 169 vs Taylor
182 vs Tarver
180 vs Pavlik
186 vs Pascal II

If bang on the guy is a light heavyweight in Qawi's day, and not even a small one.

Qawi tho is an ATG H2H light heavyweight and styles suit him in this one. The man is relentless and as skillfull as hell. He'd win a clear decision here, i think.

 

Qawi by decision.

 

Right on the money here JT. Mackie Shilstone specifically was brought in to transition Hopkins from MW to LhtHvy. Shilstone also was the fitness coach for Spinks, RJJ and was famous for rehabing Peyton Manning in winning a second superbowl/ Mackie also adding 11 years to Ozzie Smiths HOF career, and Serena Williams dominace as one of the best dominating athletes of all time. Bhop was a lot bigger than people think ,

https://www.espn.com/sports/boxing/news/story?id=2377542

 

Love BHOP, but Qawi too relentless.

 

Cheers surf! Shilstone was definitely the shizzle mate. He was awesome across various sports.