It's the last wonderful fight, of the year

A real nice fight, Jean Pascal (26-1, 16 KOs) vs Bernard Hopkins (51-5-1, 32 KOs) for the Light Heavyweight Championship of the world. More importantly it's a league-involved fight, with Bryn backing Pascal and Mesiti backing Hopkins. Let's look at their strengths:

For Pascal - he's a strong and well-conditioned light heavyweight. He defeated Chad Dawson in August by maintaining distance in the ring and moving in and out with hard body shots and quick combinations. His chin seems decent, although I thought Dawson had him hurt at least once. Pascal does seem like a smart fighter and defended himself well against Dawson. His only loss was a decision to Carl Froch, a top super middleweight.

For Hopkins - obviously his experience and toughness will serve him well, and have for 20 years. Hopkins has only average power, so a knockout would be a real shock. He's looked good in many recent fights, but not against Roy Jones Jr. when his timing just seemed to be off. Hopkins has taken punches from Antonio Tarver, Joe Calzaghe and Kelly Pavlik at light heavyweight, so there's not much danger of him being KO'd.

Prediction: W 12 Pascal. I think that Pascal's flashy combinations and greater energy will win him a decision. Pascal is fighting in front of a home crowd and will undoubtedly understand that he has to be active in order to win the fight. Hopkins' only chance, I believe, is if the fight is a real stinker, with lots of holding and shoving, and not many landed punches. While the coolest outcome might be a one-punch knockout for Hopkins, rest assured it is the least likely. I expect a win for The Girl's Team and loss for Brewed Stew.

Also, Odlanier Solis from Joel B's team, fights Ray Austin tonight. Come on Solis, get a KO!!!