From the archive · April 3, 2010
Bernard Hopkins vs Roy Jones Jr 2
12 Round Non-title Fight · Mandalay Bay Resort & Casino, Las Vegas, USA
Record 50-5-1 · 175 lb
Record 54-6-0 · 175 lb

The fight
Bernard Hopkins and Roy Jones Jr met in a long-anticipated rematch 17 years after their initial encounter at the Mandalay Bay Events Center in Las Vegas on April 3, 2010. Both fighters weighed in at 175 pounds. Hopkins entered the ring with a record of 50 wins, 5 losses, and 1 draw, while Jones held a record of 54 wins and 6 losses.
The bout was characterized by tactical exchanges, with Hopkins employing effective aggression and Jones relying on counterpunching. Hopkins maintained control throughout the fight, utilizing his defensive prowess and ring generalship to neutralize Jones' offence. The match included several contentious moments, notably in the sixth round when Jones landed an illegal punch to the back of Hopkins' head, resulting in a brief halt in the action.
After 12 rounds, the judges awarded Hopkins a unanimous decision victory with scores of 118-109, 117-110, and 117-110. This win allowed Hopkins to avenge his 1993 loss to Jones and further solidified his legacy in the light heavyweight division.
The event, promoted by Golden Boy Promotions and Square Ring, was broadcast on pay-per-view but garnered approximately 150,000 buys, reflecting limited public interest. Critics and fans expressed disappointment in the bout's entertainment value, with some calling for both fighters to consider retirement.
In the aftermath, Hopkins and Jones continued their boxing careers, each participating in subsequent bouts before retiring from the sport. While lacking the excitement many had hoped for, the rematch remains a notable chapter in the storied careers of two of boxing's most accomplished athletes.