Episode XXXV: Boxing Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins - a podcast by wheretheyat

The 35th edition of Whe're They At features International Boxing Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner, Bernard Hopkins. Born and raised in the rich boxing city of Philadelphia, Bernard was one of greatest Middleweights of All-Time, defending his title for a record 20 times. He went on to win the Light Heavyweight championship three times. When he was gained the Light Heavyweight championship for a 2nd time, he became the oldest person in Boxing history to win a title (45 years, 337 days), breaking the record of past 'Whe're They At' guest, George Foreman (Episode VIII). He retired from the sport at AGE 51 and is universally recognized as one of the Top-5 Pound for Pound fighters of his generation. Now, he is a major voice and decision maker for Golden Boy Promotions, partnering with Oscar De La Hoya. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Bernard on a multitude of topics including:                  

03:13-The factors for his historic longevity in Boxing.                                    
04:27-How did the boxing culture, music and tough aura of Philadelphia influence him?                         
 
11:14-On the adversity he experienced as a teenager and young adult with multiple run-ins with the law and how Boxing saving his life.                           
 
16:36-How those experiences helped him become the person he is today.                 
 
18:16-'Best Offense is Defense', his approach to boxing which has helped him live a relaxing and productive life after Boxing.                       
20:40-Reflects on the 16-month layoff from competitive boxing after losing his professional debut.                    
 
31:22-On his mentor and trainer, the late Bouie Fisher.                       
33:55-Boxing is lacking trainers that are knowledgeable and experienced teachers.                       
 
37:12-On how his loss to Roy Jones, Jr. really motivated him to augment his skillset.                     
 
40:38-Vividly reflects on the eventful two weeks leading to his major victory over Felix Trinidad...right AFTER the 9-11 tragedy.                           
47:53-On why he felt he needed a knockout, NOT relying on a decision vs. Trinidad.                   
 
51:26-Shares a funny story about Jay-Z regarding his victory over Trinidad.                   
 
54:08-Made it a priority to build his business acumen during his career.                     
 
56:13-On being an underdog going into most of his fights during his career.                       
 
56:48-His toughest opponents.                       
 
57:25-Jermain Taylor was 'ruined' after his two wins versus Bernard.                      
1:02:27-The current state of Golden Boy Promotions.                    
 
1:03:03-Previews the December 5th card featuring young phenom, Ryan Garcia.                      
 
1:04:22-On the rise of the talent rich Lightweight (135 pounds) division.                       
 
1:06:17-Which contender(s) should Canelo fight next?                    
 
1:08:59-Remembers his trainer and friend, the late Brother Naazim Richardson.                         
 
1:13:01-Shares his candid thoughts on the upcoming Mike Tyson-Roy Jones, Jr. exhibition.     
 
1:20:19-How can Boxing regain the popularity that Mixed Martial Arts is now experiencing?                 
 
1:24:47-Bernard gives his take on past and present fighters, Nabaté picks the random names for him.                     
 
1:35:00-Bernard lists his Top All-Time Pound for Pound Fighters.                                                        

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Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

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