Two-weight world title holder Hopkins, who turned 48 earlier this year, claimed the record when defeating Jean Pascal in May 2011 for the WBC light-heavyweight title – overthrowing ‘Big’ George Foreman’s long-standing feat.
Philly-based Hopkins was then dethroned by ‘Bad’ Chad Dawson less than a year later following a no-contest decision the first time around and was conspicuous by his absence until his latest announcement to prolong his career towards his 50’s.
‘The Executioner’ is now prepared to end IBF champion Tavoris Cloud’s solid 24-fight undefeated record at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York and break his own record on Saturday night by a further eleven months.
Cloud at 31 is still young enough to be Hopkins’ son and is proof yet again that ‘B-Hop’ is not afraid to mix it with the prime athletes in his division. ‘Thunder’ Cloud will be looking to end the career of the ‘Executioner’ once and for all as Hopkins continues to astound with his presence as a pro fighter in his twilight years.
On the undercard, undefeated Keith Thurman Jr. tackles former world title holder Jan Zaveck for the chance to become mandatory challenger to WBO welterweight champion Timothy Bradley as the two square off in a final eliminator.
US viewers can see Hopkins v Cloud live on HBO from 9.30pm ET.
Hopkins v Cloud and Thurman v Zaveck are live on BoxNation (UK) this Saturday night from 2am. To subscribe for just £10 a month, click on any BoxNation link or banner on the WBN website.
