BoxRec

This fight was negotiated back in 2009, when Hopkins was flirting with an idea to move up to cruiserweight and face then-IBF/Lineal champ Adamek.

Negotiations fell through, because of what was considered "a low-ball offer" by Kathy Duva, who represented Adamek.

I think, this fight would've gathered a good crowd in Atlantic City's Boardwalk Hall.

Who would've won?

I feel like Adamek would've taken this one with a hard fought decision. He's a good bit physically stronger than B-Hop. It'd be interesting though. A close decision either way wouldn't be shocking, but my gut says Adamek.

Adamek

Personally, I would've favoured Hopkins in this one.

Adamek wasn't a big cruiserweight. He has quick hands and a fine workrate. But he wasn't overall as quick, as busy or as rhythmical as, say, Calzaghe. Also, was a bit more straight-forward and basic.

Cunningham and Banks were tagging Adamek a lot with their right hands. I'm sure, Hopkins would've studied both those fights closely. After some feeling out process, Hopkins would be finding home for his trademark straight right, too. As Adamek is pretty opened for this punch.

I don't expect Hopkins to put on a lot of weight for this cruiserweight voyage. He'd be in the 180-185lbs range. Still, as rounds go by, I expect B-Hop to get a little fatigued. That's when Adamek would be coming on.

I expect some very uncomfortable moments for Hop in late rounds. Especially, when Adamek will be putting him on the ropes. But I also think Hopkins' savvy and defense will help him fend off champ's late rally.

Hop will escape with an 8-4ish, 7-5ish decision. His cleaner work in the 1st half will win him a fight.