Hopkins calls for title shot after avenging Jones loss

BERNARD Hopkins won a unanimous decision against fellow American Roy Jones Jr on Saturday night, finally avenging his 1993 defeat in a long-delayed re-match.

There were no knockdowns in a bout that was characterised by caution but punctuated by stoppages for accidental fouls.

After Saturday's bout, Hopkins claimed an interest in emulating Jones and challenging for a heavyweight title. "People will think the punch in the back of my head made me a little crazy, but I want David Haye," he said.

The fight briefly erupted into life at the end of the sixth round. Jones spun out of a clinch in the corner and landed a short punch to the back of Hopkins' head. Hopkins dropped to his knees and took several minutes to return to his feet.

When the round resumed, Hopkins attacked Jones with a furious flurry and the two men continued to exchange punches as the bell rang.

Both corner teams and security officials entered the ring to separate the fighters and restore order. Hopkins went down on two other occasions, from another rabbit punch and a low blow, while an accidental head butt in the 11th round opened a gash on Jones's eyelid.