Bernard Hopkins Professional Boxing Record Overview
Bernard Hopkins compiled one of the most durable professional boxing records in middleweight history. His official record stands at 55 wins, 8 losses, and 2 draws, with 32 wins by knockout, according to BoxRec. Hopkins held the undisputed middleweight title from 2001 to 2005, unifying belts from the WBA, WBC, IBF, and WBO. He is widely recognized as one of the oldest champions in boxing history, winning a major title at age 49 against Joe Smith Jr. in 2014.
Hopkins' career spanned more than three decades, from his debut in 1988 to his final bout in 2016. He successfully defended the middleweight title 20 times, setting a division record at the time. His longevity and consistency are frequently cited in discussions of the greatest pound-for-pound fighters of the modern era. Hopkins also competed at light heavyweight later in his career, challenging for a title against Joe Calzaghe in 2008.
Key Fight Results and Title Reign
Bernard Hopkins defeated notable champions such as Felix Trinidad, Oscar De La Hoya, and Kelly Pavlik during his middleweight dominance. His 2001 victory over Trinidad is considered a defining moment that established him as the best middleweight in the world. Hopkins' win over De La Hoya in 2004 was a unanimous decision that solidified his undisputed status. The fight generated over 900,000 pay-per-view buys and is among the highest-grossing middleweight bouts in history.
His loss to Jermain Taylor in 2005 ended his undefeated streak as a champion, though he regained the IBF title later that year. Hopkins also suffered a notable defeat to Joe Smith Jr. in 2016, which marked the end of his competitive career. His record against elite-level opposition includes wins over three division champions and multiple hall of famers. Hopkins' strategic, defensive style influenced a generation of boxers and trainers.
Legacy and Financial Impact
Bernard Hopkins earned an estimated $150 million in career earnings, with significant paydays from his later fights against Pavlik and Smith Jr. He was a regular on HBO pay-per-view events and helped elevate the commercial profile of the middleweight division. Hopkins' business ventures and public persona extended his influence beyond the ring, making him a recognizable figure in sports and entertainment.
He was inducted into the International Boxing Hall of Fame in 2024, cementing his legacy among the all-time greats. Hopkins' record and achievements are frequently referenced in discussions of the greatest defensive fighters in boxing history. His career is also studied for its financial and promotional lessons in combat sports. More details on his career milestones can be found on the official BoxRec page.