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Boxing

Calzaghe close to Hopkins deal

12/01/2008

Joe Calzaghe says he is close to finalising a deal to fight Bernard Hopkins in Las Vegas later this year.

The undisputed super-middleweight champion is looking to move up a category to light-heavyweight, where Hopkins now operates having been a champion at middleweight for over ten years.

Calzaghe has coveted a fight with Hopkins for many years and the Welshman claims it will still be a challenge despite his opponent's age – Hopkins is now 42 years old.

Writing in his column in the South Wales Argus, Calzaghe said he expected the fight to be held in one of the super casinos in Vegas rather than in New York.

Calzaghe revealed: "Talks with Golden Boy Promotions, Hopkins' representatives, are almost over and I've been told the fight's on April 12th.

"I am hopeful that by this time next week, the deal will be sealed, but if it isn't it seems like it will only be a matter of time."

Although Calzaghe has been a champion for over ten years the fight will be his American debut.

However the 35-year-old says he is not daunted by the prospect of facing Hopkins in an unfamiliar environment and claims it is merely another challenge he is looking forward to.

"I think that fighting in America for the first time is the logical step for me to make, I will be 36 in March and the clock is ticking on how much longer I carry on," said Calzaghe.

The Welshman has previously stated that he will only fight two or three more bouts before ending his illustrious career.