By Mike Plunkett

Earlier today at a press conference in Montreal, reigning IBO/WBC and Ring Magazine light heavyweight champion Jean Pascal, 26-1-1, 16 KO’s had to be physically restrained after getting into a heated shoving match with Bernard “The Executioner” Hopkins, the former world middleweight and light heavyweight champion. Tempers flared when the two fighters came face to face in advance of their scheduled May 21st rematch, the much anticipated follow-up to last December’s controversial draw, a bout that looked as though the 46 year-old former two-division champion had done just enough to make boxing history. Amidst a widespread hue and cry of foul among the media and fans, both camps quickly came to terms on an immediate rematch, a return that promises to be more of a grudge match than anything else.

Matters erupted when Pascal took the microphone and handed Hopkins all his championship belts. “I know you’re a thief, so I’m giving them to you now, but after May 21st, they’re staying here.” Pascal then upped the ante and accused the 46 year-old of cheating. “Are you willing to take a blood test for the fans and the rest of the world to prove you’re clean? You’re from the same family as Shane Mosley. Are you willing to take the test?”

As Hopkins got up to leave saying he would submit to any test the Quebec Commission required, Pascal stayed the aggressor and got into a shoving match and had to be physically restrained. “You’re a f*!%ing cheater,” the Montreal fighter screamed as Hopkins left the room.

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