08.02.08 Hopkins vs Calzaghe Press stream

Bernard Hopkins says he will fly the flag for America when he takes on Joe Calzaghe at light-heavyweight on April 19 in Las Vegas.

At a packed London press conference today, former middleweight king and now light-heavyweight number one Hopkins also insisted that being an underdog for the showdown will give him all the motivation he needs.

"I am going to bring some boxing history to the English," said Hopkins, after a particularly patriotic promotional video was shown of the 43-year-old, 48-4-1 (32).

"When I step out of that ring I represent myself and my family, but I also represent the USA. I believe we have the best athletes in boxing and if I have to prove that then I will do so.

"It's going to be a repeat of Muhammad Ali against Henry Cooper. Just keep that in your heads.

"I'm glad to hear that Joe Calzaghe will be more comfortable at light-heavyweight, just like I'm more comfortable after 13 years making middleweight. There's no excuses. I want Joe Calzaghe at his best, and I want to be at my best."

Hopkins will begin the fight - which takes place in the Planet Hollywood Ring at the Thomas & Mack Centre - a 2-1 underdog, but shrugged off concerns that he might have bitten off more than he can chew against the Welshman.

"I function better when things are not supposed to be my way," he said. "That's when I'm at my best."

When Hopkins and Calzaghe met in December in Las Vegas at the Ricky Hatton-Floyd Mayweather weigh-in, proceedings were marred when The Executioner vowed to "never lose to a white boy".

Today, Hopkins looked to move on from the statement - he claimed the press conference wasn't a re-run of the Barack Obama-Hilary Clinton presidential race - although didn't retract it.

"I said what I said," he explained. "People who know me, know me. You can write what you want and you have the legal right to do that. It's up to Joe Calzaghe to prove me a liar.

"Hey, it's legal and we get a cheque.

"I used to beat people up many times and I went to jail for it. Then I realised I can do this thing and not get arrested and make money for myself and my family. I love America!"

Meanwhile Calzaghe, 44-0 (32) insisted that he will end Hopkins' career - which has spanned nearly 20 years - once and for all on April 19.

"I will dominate the fight," said undefeated Calzaghe, who turns 36 shortly before the fight.

"This will be Bernard Hopkins' last fight. I'm going to be a legend after this fight. I'm going there and I'm going to win. Quite simply, you are going to see an awesome performance.

"I'm really excited about this fight. I'm looking forward to fighting at 175 pounds for the first time. I'll be more comfortable at the weight but I'll keep my speed and punching power. I know I'm going to win the fight, it's as simple as that."

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