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Hopkins and Calzaghe clash

08/12/2007

Bernard Hopkins and Joe Calzaghe clashed in Las Vegas as they attended the weigh-in of Ricky Hatton and Floyd Mayweather.

The American taunted Calzaghe claiming he would not lose to the Welshman if they fought because he was white.

Hopkins continued to deride Calzaghe's achievements, claiming the 32-year-old is yet to face a quality opponent.

"I would never let a white boy beat me," claimed Hopkins repeatedly.

"You can print that. I would never lose to a white person. He said on record that he's going to take the fight and that's all you need to hear."

Despite Hopkins' claims it seems that the former heavyweight champion is ready to give Calzaghe the bout he desires, though he continued to knock the quality of the Welshman's previous opponents.

Hopkins added: "I haven't ducked anybody in my career, my credibility is intact. Kessler is not in my league, man. Who is Kessler? You think Kessler was a true warrior?"

Calzaghe remained unmoved by the American's outburst and claims that Hopkins refused to fight him four years ago.

The undisputed super-middleweight champion is confident he would win if the two met in a bout next year.

Calzaghe claims that Hopkins would not be able to withstand the barrage of punches which he throws during a fight.

"He ducked me four years ago. He thinks he's a legend but he lost to Jermain Taylor twice and, believe me, he will lose to me," said Calzaghe.

Promoter Frank Warren says he is close to sealing a deal to stage a fight between the pair in America and has made a "good offer" to Hopkins.