In a recent post, I referenced a quote from Bernard Hopkins.  In the days since, I’ve received several emails about his words of wisdom.  Considering the popularity of a single quote, it is time that I dedicated an entire entry to this ageless warrior.

Bernard Hopkins is 46 years old and the current WBC light heavyweight champion of the world.  Hopkins hasn’t always been the most popular fighter in the world, but he’s unquestionably been one of the most consistent and effective.  Sure, Hopkins has made a few comments that have irked certain fans, but more often than not he was playing the role of the villain to market his fights.

I first met Bernard over ten years ago and enjoyed speaking with him after running a 5K road race together at the International Boxing Hall of Fame.

Pictured with Bernard a long time ago!

Hopkins was incredibly down to earth and enjoyed talking to anyone about boxing.  At the time, he had not even fought Tito Trinidad.  He was only in his 30′s but the media was already calling him old.  I’ll never forget when he told me that he’s going to be around for a long time.  He wasn’t joking.  That was over a decade ago and he’s still going strong.

As for the secret to his success, I’d put consistency at the top of the list.  Bernard Hopkins has stayed in shape throughout his career.  His work ethic in the gym has been described as Spartan-like.  He literally eats, sleeps, and breathes boxing.  He doesn’t pig out and gain weight in between fights.  He doesn’t take extended breaks from the gym.  He remains disciplined and focused and has done so his entire career.

As for where he’s come, Bernard Hopkins spent almost five years incarcerated before becoming a professional fighter.  He then lost his first pro fight in 1988.  Following the loss, he did not fight again for over a year.  He returned in 1990 and the rest is history.  He’s been an active professional fighter for over 20 years now.

Looking at where he is today, it is mind boggling to think that he was once an 0-1 felon, fresh out of prison without a manager or promoter. To suggest that Hopkins came up the hard way is an understatement.

For a look back at where he’s come from since his youth, take a look at the video below…

It takes no effort to be ordinary. Ordinary is not even a challenge. You can do nothing and be ordinary. – Bernard Hopkins