by Leo Reyes
Bernard Hopkins’ attempt to prolong his reign as the oldest boxer ever to win a world title at age 46, has been derailed as the referee stopped the fight before the end of the second round and ruled a TKO in favor of Chad Dawson.
In the bizarre-ending fight, Hopkins complained he was pushed to the canvas by Dawson, hurting his elbow and shoulder. Hopkins was hurt real bad as he leaned halfway through the ropes, holding his shoulder while unable to continue fighting.
No foul was ruled by the referee paving the way for a technical decision in favor of Dawson.
Except for a few left-right combinations in the first round, Hopkins has not found his target and failed to score to grab the points of the first round. The score was pretty even but it seemed Dawson got the first round score.
It is clear Dawson “manhandled” Hopkins, and threw him into to the ropes down the canvas. There was no telling shot that hit Hopkins but the impact of the push must have really injured Hopkins.
It is possible the referee erred in his decision. A no-contest decision should have been more appropriate.
Hopkins was favored to win over Dawson based on online pools a few days before the fight. The 46-year-old WBC light heavyweight champion is fresh from his victory over Jean Pascal via a unanimous decision last May in Montreal, Canada.
Dawson, who held victories over Tomasz Adamek and Antonio Tarver has improved his record to 30-1,17 KOs.
Dawson’s only loss was against Jean Pascal in August last year via 11th round technical decision due to accidental head-butt.
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