I'am taking Hopkins by Split Decision and this is an unbias prediction. This fight is going to be interesting for one reason, we have a high volume puncher against someone who neutralizes it. This fight will not be a blowout for either fighter as some think. Calzaghe will try to throw 100 punches every round but he'll have a tough time doing hit considering Hopkins style and habits to tie up fighters. Once Joe is unable to throw those combonations, Hopkins will be able to land his own punches and Headbutts in the clinch. Joe has never seen a fighter that can neutralize his own style. There is always the factor that Joe can clearly outpunch and decision Hopkins like he does to his opponents. Joe has a great chance to win no doubt but I see the smarter fighter and more experienced fighter Hopkins winning a close SD.
what people don't realise is that Calzaghe is able to potshot as well he doesn't need to come forward all the time. If he stays out of range and uses his faster handspeed to potshot he can beat Hopkins relatively easy imo, taking away his counterpunching opportunities. If he tries to use angles at close to mid-range like is his usual style then he will have a hard time.
He may not be at his best but it's still enough to put away Calzaghe but it's also enough to BE put away by Calzaghe. I stand by my pick.
