Reliving Bernard Hopkins Creating History Against Jean Pascal

On Saturday, May 21, 2011, Bernard Hopkins created history at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, as he defeated Jean Pascal to become the oldest fighter in boxing history to win a major world title, eclipsing the record set by George Foreman when he knocked out Michael Moorer. At Big Fight Weekend, we love our nostalgia, and we wanted to take you back to that historic night in Canada that saw “The Executioner” further enhance his legacy.

Bernard Hopkins Defeats Jean Pascal by Unanimous Decision

Bernard Hopkins vs. Jean Pascal Recap

The Bell Centre was the venue for Hopkins defying his age and defeating his Canadian opponent by unanimous decision, with the judge’s scorecards reading 115-113, 116-112 and 115-114. Hopkins got into his groove quickly before Padcal caught him with a left hand in round three. The Canadian seemed concerned he would be caught by a countering Hopkins, which left him hesitant to press home any possible advantages.

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Pascal hurt Hopkins again in round four but again refused to make the most of the situation. As the rounds wore on, “The Executioner” began to outwork his younger opponent, landing sharp, clean shots. This was turning into the ideal fight for “B-Hop.”

Despite an upturn in his work rate in the final two rounds, Pascal had been out-hustled by the older man, whose experience had seen him boss the majority of this bout. Experience really was the key in this fight, as Hopkins created history.

Career Highlights

Hopkins enjoyed some painful defeats during his career, but there were also plenty of memorable wins for “The Executioner.” His win against Kelly Pavlik showed he was ageing like a fine wine as he bossed proceedings with all judges favouring him, 117–109, 119–106 and 118–108.

Read More: Joe Calzaghe Makes History Against Bernard Hopkins in Light Heavyweight Showdown

Another impressive performance came against his future business partner Oscar De La Hoya, winning with a thudding body shot to De La Hoya’s liver. A dominant Hopkins also brushed aside Antonio Tarver, with all three scorecards reading 118-109.