Boxing: Hopkins-Dawson rematch ordered

LAS VEGAS: WBC light-heavyweight champion Bernard Hopkins has been ordered by the World Boxing Council to fight Chad Dawson in a mandatory rematch after their first meeting was ruled to be a ‘no contest’ following a controversial finish. However, Hopkins, who remains the oldest champion in boxing history aged 46, and Dawson were given a clause that leaves the door open for possible fights in the interim period. The WBC order comes after Hopkins’ first fight against Dawson in October was changed from a loss to a no-contest after the referee did not call a foul on Dawson for slamming Hopkins to the canvas. Hopkins landed on his shoulder, suffering an injury that stopped the fight.

Published in The Express Tribune, December 21^st, 2011.