Roy Jones Jr vs Bernard Hopkins (2002)

[EdwardRevolver1993]

Today marks the 23rd anniversary of a split-site doubleheader, that was designed as a build-up to a rematch between Roy Jones and Bernard Hopkins in a mid-to-late part of 2002.

The doubleheader featured Jones and Hopkins making their respective homecomings.

Jones defended his undisputed 175lbs championship in Miami with a highlight-reel KO 7 over Glen Kelly, while Hopkins defended his undisputed 160lbs championship in Pennsylvania with an RTD 10 win over Carl Daniels.

The plan was for Jones and Hopkins meeting in the middle (at 168lbs, supposedly) later in 2002. But negotiations hit the wall and the rematch of their 1993 bout wouldn't happen until 2010 (when it already didn't matter).

But who'd you have picked, had they met in 2002?

[Les Norton]

I felt that Roy was never the same after bulking up to 200lbs for the Ruiz fight. When he cut back to 175 he just didn’t look the same and I think his record supports that.
At 168-175 before the Ruiz fight, I think he beats Hopkins everyday.
After that, it’s Hopkins

[Jeff_lacy_ko]

Roy

Hopkins sabotaged this fight and his fight with james toney (plan was originally holyfield vs rjj and toney vs hopkins)

I think hopkins didnt want any part of roy or toney at this part of his career