Bernard Hopkins (IBF) vs Beibet Shumenov (WBA) in a historical unification fight. Shawn Porter (IBF) defends his World Title for the first time against Paulie Malignaggi. Porter, unbeaten, won the title from Devon Alexander last year on a card headlined by Malignaggi's dominating victory over Zab Judah.
I am pretty confident Malignaggi will get the win. If he gets robbed i will be quite surprised because i dont see Porter being a big money name in the division (unlike what Broner was scouted to be) As for Hopkins, the smart money would be Hopkins decision, but after watching Shumenov's last fight, I was impressed with him and wont be too surprised to see him hammer out a points win
I'd be far more surprised if Shu beat Hopkins. I just don't see what he brings that Hopkins hasn't dealt with and disposed of in recent years. With Hopkins, every prediction comes with a disclaimer. (age related deterioration of skills).
Hopkins by a comfortable points decision or even a late TKO since Shumenov is such a sucker for Nard's punches and the old geezer has extra motivation here. Malignaggi will not get crowded and will put a clinic to send this once stocky 160 pounder to the contender list by way of close UD.
I dont see Porter getting upset by Paulie at all. He takes his craft ver seriously, and has for a very long time. Not that Paulie doesnt, but unlike some like Broner - Porter brings the goods as advertised.
Hopkins will probably win, Shumi telegraphs his punches too much and throws them too widely, Porter will beat Paulie by decision
